Reporting a Dog Bite: What Legal Actions Do You Take?

Jared | September 29, 2025 | Personal Injury

If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog in Phoenix, you might be unsure about what to do next. Reporting a dog bite is one of the most important steps you can take—not just for your own safety, but for the safety of others. It also helps create a legal record that may be critical if you decide to pursue compensation. Continue reading to learn more about your legal options after a dog bite.

When Should You Report a Dog Bite?

You should report a dog bite as soon as possible after the incident. Arizona law requires certain professionals like medical providers to report dog bites, but victims should also take the initiative.

Reporting helps:

• Document the incident officially
• Identify whether the dog has a history of aggression
• Start a public health investigation (especially regarding rabies)
• Protect others in the community
• Support your future legal claim

Even if the injury seems minor, reporting is still essential. Some injuries worsen over time, and a report ensures the event is on record.

Who Do You Report a Dog Bite to in Phoenix?

In Phoenix and Maricopa County, dog bites must be reported to Maricopa County Animal Care and Control. 

You can do this by:

• Calling (602) 506-7387
• Submitting a report through the county website

You may also need to notify local law enforcement if the bite involved serious injury or if the dog appeared dangerous or out of control.

Medical professionals who treat dog bite victims are legally required to submit a report. However, if you don’t seek medical attention immediately, the incident could go unreported. Taking action yourself is critical.

What Happens After You Report the Bite?

Once a report is filed, Animal Control will typically:

• Investigate the circumstances of the attack
• Contact the dog owner
• Determine whether the dog has been vaccinated for rabies
• Possibly quarantine the animal for up to 10 days
• Assess whether the dog is a public danger

If the dog has a history of biting or is deemed aggressive, authorities may impose additional restrictions on the owner, such as requiring a muzzle or secure fencing.

The report also creates official documentation, which can be used if you pursue a personal injury claim.

Arizona’s Dog Bite Liability Laws

Arizona follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. 

That means:

• Dog owners are automatically responsible if their dog bites someone
• It doesn’t matter if the dog has never bitten anyone before
• It doesn’t matter if the owner was unaware that the dog might be aggressive

So, unlike in some states where you must prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous, Arizona law is clear: if the dog bites you, the owner is liable.

You can file a claim under Arizona Revised Statutes § 11-1025, which provides strict liability for bites. You can also pursue a claim under general negligence laws for other injuries caused by dogs, such as a dog knocking someone over.

These legal paths allow victims to recover compensation even if the dog had no prior history of aggression. An attorney can help determine which statute applies to your specific situation.

What Legal Actions Can You Take After a Dog Bite?

Once you’ve reported the bite, you may take several legal actions:

1. File an Insurance Claim

Many dog bite claims are paid through the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. 

This can cover:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma

Filing an insurance claim is often the first step toward securing compensation, but insurers may still try to downplay your injuries or offer a low settlement.

2. File a Personal Injury Lawsuit

You may file a lawsuit to pursue full compensation if insurance coverage is denied or inadequate. A personal injury attorney can help you determine if this is necessary.

3. Seek Restitution Through a Criminal Case

In severe cases, if the dog owner is charged with a crime (such as violating leash laws), a court may order them to pay restitution as part of the criminal penalty.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Victims of dog bites may be eligible for a range of damages, including:

• Medical expenses (emergency care, follow-up visits, surgery, etc.)
• Lost wages if the injury kept you from working
• Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
• Scarring or disfigurement (widespread in facial bites)
• Mental health treatment (such as therapy for trauma or fear)

In some cases, punitive damages may also apply, especially if the owner acted recklessly.

How Long Do You Have to Take Legal Action?

Under Arizona’s statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of the dog bite to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to recover compensation entirely.

There are limited exceptions, so speaking with an attorney soon after the bite is the best way to protect your rights.

Should You Talk to a Lawyer After a Dog Bite?

Yes. Even though Arizona’s strict liability law favors victims, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. 

A lawyer can:

• Review your medical records and document your injuries
• Handle communication with the dog owner and their insurer
• Calculate a fair settlement amount
• File a lawsuit if necessary

Having legal guidance helps ensure you don’t miss any steps or settle for less than you deserve.

Contact the Phoenix Dog Bite Lawyers at Impact Legal Car Accident Attorneys for Help Today

Reporting a dog bite is not just a health and safety measure. It’s the foundation of your legal case. It ensures the event is documented, supports any insurance claim or lawsuit, and helps prevent future attacks. After reporting, taking legal action can help you recover the compensation you need to heal and move forward.

If a dog has bitten you, Impact Legal Car Accident Attorneys is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Phoenix dog bite attorney.

Impact Legal Car Accident Attorneys
16202 N Cave Creek Rd Suite D, Phoenix, AZ 85032
(602) 345-1818