What to Do After a Dog Bite in Baltimore, MD

1) Get to safety and assess the injury

Move away from the dog and any immediate danger. If the bite is severe (uncontrolled bleeding, deep wounds, injuries to the face or hand, signs of shock, or multiple bites), call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

If the victim is a child, an older adult, pregnant, or immunocompromised, treat the situation as higher-risk and seek prompt medical evaluation.

2) Seek medical care (do not “wait and see”)

Dog bites can lead to infection and may involve deeper injury (including tendons or nerves). Medical care also creates documentation that can matter later. For general first-aid and when-to-seek-care guidance, see Mayo Clinic – Animal bites: First aid.

Ask the provider to document: (a) the location and size of each wound, (b) whether there is suspected tendon or nerve involvement, (c) recommended follow-up care, and (d) any work restrictions. Keep copies of discharge papers, prescriptions, referrals, and invoices.

3) Ask about rabies and tetanus (then verify the dog’s status)

Rabies is a time-sensitive medical issue. If you can safely do so, identify the dog and owner and gather vaccination information. If the dog’s rabies vaccination status cannot be confirmed quickly, a clinician and/or public health authorities can advise whether post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is recommended. See CDC – Rabies: Medical care.

Also ask whether a tetanus booster is indicated based on your immunization history and wound type. See CDC – Clinical guidance for wound management to prevent tetanus.

4) Identify the owner and gather key information at the scene (if safe)

If you are able, collect:

• Owner/handler name, address, and phone number
• The address where the incident happened
• Dog description (type/breed if known, size, color, collar/tags)
• Vaccination information (especially rabies)
• Homeowner’s/renter’s insurance information (if they will provide it)

If the owner is not present, note where the dog came from and ask nearby residents or businesses if they recognize the dog.

5) Document everything (photos, witnesses, and your timeline)

Preserving evidence early can reduce later disputes about what happened and the extent of injuries.

• Take photos of injuries immediately and over time (as bruising, swelling, or scarring evolves)
• Photograph torn/bloody clothing and the location where the bite occurred
• Get names and phone numbers of witnesses (and a brief note of what they saw)
• Write a timeline: date/time, what you were doing, whether the dog was leashed/contained, and what the owner said/did

Keep damaged clothing and items in a bag (avoid washing if you may need to show punctures/tearing later).

6) Report the bite to the appropriate local authorities

Reporting can help with public safety and with locating the dog for quarantine/vaccination verification. In Baltimore City, the appropriate reporting path can depend on the situation (for example, whether the dog is known, whether the dog is loose, and whether medical providers are already involved). If you are unsure where to start, contact Baltimore City Animal Control for guidance.

If the dog is loose, aggressive, or the owner cannot be identified, reporting promptly may be especially important to help prevent additional bites and to help locate the animal for health-related evaluation.

7) Avoid common mistakes that can hurt your health or your claim

After a bite, people often:

• Delay medical treatment or skip follow-up care
• Fail to identify the dog/owner or confirm vaccination status
• Provide recorded statements to insurers before understanding the facts and the full extent of injuries
• Post about the incident on social media in ways that can be misunderstood
• Accept quick payments without understanding future medical needs, infection complications, or scarring

If an insurer contacts you, you can request the claim number, adjuster details, and instructions for submitting documents without guessing about fault or minimizing symptoms.

8) Track losses (bills, time off work, and daily impact)

A bite can involve more than the initial visit. Start a folder (paper or digital) for:

• Medical bills, co-pays, prescriptions, therapy, and future-care recommendations
• Mileage/transportation costs for appointments
• Lost wages (pay stubs, employer letters, missed shift documentation)
• Notes about pain, sleep disruption, limitations, and emotional effects (including fear around animals)

9) When to talk to a Maryland dog-bite lawyer

Consider a legal consultation if:

• The bite required stitches or caused scarring, infection, nerve/tendon injury, or surgery
• The victim is a child or the bite involved the face, head, neck, or hands
• The owner denies responsibility or disputes what happened
• The dog owner is unknown or appears uninsured
• You are being pressured to settle quickly

Maryland liability rules can be fact-specific and can depend on details like who had control of the animal, where the incident occurred, and what happened immediately before the bite. Counsel can help identify potential insurance coverage, preserve evidence, and communicate with adjusters. Contact us.

10) Be mindful of deadlines (they can vary)

Maryland civil claims often have filing deadlines. For many personal injury cases, the general limitations period is three years, but exceptions and different rules may apply depending on the claim and parties involved. See Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101.

If a potential defendant is a local government or its employee, separate notice requirements may apply (often with a shorter timeline). See Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-304. Because missing a deadline can affect your rights, consider getting legal advice as soon as practical.

FAQ (Baltimore dog bites)

Do I need to go to the doctor for a minor dog bite?

Even smaller bites can become infected or involve deeper tissue injury. A clinician can assess infection risk, wound care, and whether rabies or tetanus measures are needed.

What if I cannot identify the dog or owner?

Seek medical care first, then report the incident as soon as possible so authorities can try to locate the animal for quarantine/vaccination verification.

Should I talk to the dog owner’s insurance company?

You can provide basic contact and claim information, but avoid guessing about fault or downplaying symptoms before you understand the full medical picture.

How long do I have to file a claim in Maryland?

Often it is three years for many civil injury claims, but exceptions and special notice rules can apply (including for local government-related claims). If you are unsure, get legal advice promptly.

Maryland-specific disclaimer

Disclaimer (Maryland): This article is general information, not legal or medical advice, and it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws, procedures, and agency practices can change, and outcomes depend on specific facts. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed Maryland attorney and a qualified healthcare professional.

Need help after a Baltimore dog bite? Schedule a consultation.