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Summer in New York is a season of energy and connection. It’s a time when we all want to be outside, soaking up the sun and making memories with friends, neighbors, and—of course—our pets. But as any dog owner (or dog lover) knows, bringing pets into the mix can add both joy and unpredictability to any gathering. Most of the time, dogs are beloved members of the family, happy to chase a frisbee or nap in the shade. Sometimes, even the friendliest dog can get overwhelmed, startled, or protective in a crowd. And when that happens, a bite or other injury can turn a perfect summer day into a stressful, painful ordeal.

At Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, we see an uptick in dog bite cases every summer. If you or someone you love has been bitten or injured by a dog at a summer event, you’re not alone—and you may have important legal rights. Here’s what you need to know about dog bite liability in New York, and what to do if a summer gathering takes an unexpected turn.

Why Do Dog Bites Happen More Often in Summer?

It’s not your imagination: Dog bites and related injuries really do spike in the warmer months. There are a few reasons for this:

More Outdoor Events: Summer means more people (and pets) gathering outside, often in unfamiliar environments.

Crowds and Noise: Dogs can get anxious or overstimulated by loud music, children running around, or lots of new faces.

Relaxed Supervision: At parties, owners may be distracted, making it easier for a dog to slip away or react unexpectedly.

Children at Play: Kids are naturally drawn to dogs, but they may not always know how to approach or interact safely.

Even the most responsible pet owners can be caught off guard. And even the gentlest dog can bite if it feels threatened, scared or overwhelmed.

Who’s Responsible When a Dog Bites at a Summer Gathering?

If you’re injured by a dog at a summer event, the big question is, who’s legally responsible? In New York, the answer depends on several factors, including the dog’s history, the circumstances of the bite, and where the incident occurred.

New York’s “One Bite” Rule—And What It Means

New York follows what’s often called the “one bite” rule, but it’s a bit more nuanced than it sounds. Here’s how it works:

Strict Liability for Medical Costs: If a dog has previously shown dangerous tendencies (like biting, snapping, or aggressive behavior), the owner is strictly liable for the victim’s medical costs—even if the owner tried to prevent the bite.

Negligence for Other Damages: For damages beyond medical costs (like pain and suffering or lost wages), the victim must show that the owner was negligent—meaning they failed to take reasonable steps to control the dog or warn others of its behavior.

In other words, if the dog has a known history of aggression, the owner is on the hook for medical bills. If it’s a first-time incident, things get more complicated, and proving negligence becomes key.

What About the Host of the Event?

If the bite happens at someone else’s home or at a public event, the host or property owner may also bear some responsibility—especially if they knew a dog would be present and failed to take reasonable precautions.

For example: Did the host know the dog had a history of aggression?Were guests (especially children) warned about the dog?Was the dog properly restrained or supervised?

Every situation is unique, but these questions often come up in dog bite cases.

What Should You Do If You’re Bitten by a Dog at a Summer Event?

If you or your child is bitten or injured by a dog, it’s important to act quickly and thoughtfully. Here’s what to do:

Get Medical Attention: Even minor bites can lead to infection. Seek medical care right away, and keep records of all treatment.

Identify the Dog and Owner: Get the owner’s name, contact information, and details about the dog’s vaccination history.

Document the Incident: Take photos of your injuries, the location, and (if possible) the dog. Write down what happened while it’s fresh in your mind.

Report the Bite: In New York City, you’re required to report dog bites to the Department of Health. This helps track dangerous animals and ensures proper follow-up.Gather Witnesses: If anyone saw the incident, get their names and contact information.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Dog bite cases can be complicated. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process.

How Can Dog Owners and Hosts Prevent Dog Bites at Summer Gatherings?

No one wants a fun event to end in injury. Here are some tips for keeping everyone safe:

Know Your Dog: Be honest about your dog’s temperament. If your pet is anxious or doesn’t do well in crowds, it’s okay to leave them at home.

Supervise Closely: Never leave dogs unattended around guests, especially children.

Set Boundaries: Use leashes, gates, or crates to create safe spaces for your dog.

Communicate: Let guests know in advance if a dog will be present, and remind children to ask before approaching.

Watch for Warning Signs: If your dog seems stressed, remove them from the situation before things escalate.

For hosts, it’s wise to check with pet owners about their dog’s behavior and make sure everyone knows the ground rules.

What Compensation Can Dog Bite Victims Receive?

If you’re injured by a dog, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical expenses (including future care)

Lost wages if you miss work

Pain and suffering

Emotional distress

Scarring or permanent injury

Every case is different, and the amount depends on the severity of the injury, the circumstances, and your available insurance coverage.

When to Call a Personal Injury Attorney

Dog bite cases can be emotionally charged and legally complex. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, or the dog’s owner may be a friend or neighbor—making things awkward. That’s where we come in.At Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, we handle these cases with compassion and professionalism. We’ll help you understand your options, gather the evidence you need, and fight for the compensation you deserve—so you can focus on healing and moving forward

If you have questions about dog bite liability or need help after an injury, reach out to Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson for a free consultation. We’re here to help you protect your rights and your peace of mind—all summer long.

Disclaimer: This post is for legal education purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. No attorney-client relationship has been formed. To the extent this post constitutes attorney advertising, past results do not guarantee similar outcomes.