Serious Dog Attack Injury Attorney in Glendale & Los Angeles
A serious dog attack goes far beyond a simple bite. When a large, aggressive dog attacks — latching on, shaking, and tearing flesh — the injuries can be catastrophic, permanently disfiguring, and life-threatening. Victims of severe dog attacks need aggressive legal representation to recover the substantial compensation these cases demand. Attorney Anand Desai has handled over 5,000 injury cases across Glendale, Los Angeles, and Southern California, including cases involving devastating dog attack injuries. Call (833) 270-7800 for a free consultation.
What Constitutes a Serious Dog Attack
A serious dog attack is distinguished from a minor bite by the severity and mechanism of injury:
- Sustained mauling — the dog latches on and does not release, shaking its head to tear tissue
- Multiple bite wounds — repeated bites to different body parts during an extended attack
- Knockdown attacks — the dog’s weight knocks the victim to the ground, exposing the head, neck, and face
- Pack attacks — multiple dogs attacking simultaneously
- Attacks involving breaking containment — dogs escaping yards, breaking leashes, or pushing through barriers
Severe Dog Attack Injuries
The injuries from a major dog attack are often comparable to those from a violent assault:
- Deep tissue lacerations — requiring extensive surgical repair, sometimes in multiple stages
- Muscle and tendon damage — affecting mobility and function in the affected limb
- Facial disfigurement — loss of tissue, ear avulsion, nose damage requiring reconstructive surgery
- Nerve damage — permanent numbness, tingling, or loss of motor function
- Compound fractures — the crushing force of a large dog’s jaw can break bones
- Severe infection — including cellulitis, osteomyelitis (bone infection), and sepsis
- Blood loss — arterial damage in the arms, legs, or neck can be life-threatening
- Amputation — in the most extreme cases, fingers, hands, or other appendages may require amputation
- Severe PTSD — violent attacks produce lasting psychological trauma including flashbacks, hypervigilance, and crippling anxiety
California’s Strict Liability for Dog Attacks
California Civil Code Section 3342 holds dog owners strictly liable for injuries caused by their dogs. This applies whether or not the owner knew the dog was dangerous. For serious attacks, additional legal avenues may apply:
- Negligence claims — if the owner failed to properly contain, restrain, or control a dog they knew to be aggressive
- Negligence per se — if the dog was running loose in violation of local leash laws or breed-specific ordinances
- Premises liability — if the property owner failed to secure a known dangerous dog on their property
- Landlord liability — if the landlord allowed a tenant to keep a dangerous dog despite knowledge of the risk
Pursuing Maximum Compensation for Severe Attacks
Serious dog attack cases involve damages that far exceed typical bite claims:
- Emergency surgery and hospitalization — sometimes multiple surgeries over weeks
- Reconstructive and plastic surgery — multiple procedures to restore appearance and function, potentially spanning years
- Physical therapy — to regain strength and mobility in damaged limbs
- Psychological treatment — long-term therapy for PTSD, anxiety, and depression
- Lost wages — weeks or months of work missed during recovery
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement — the emotional and social impact of visible scars
- Pain and suffering — the physical agony of the attack and recovery
- Loss of enjoyment of life — inability to participate in outdoor activities, exercise, or social events due to fear and physical limitations
Attorney Desai works with reconstructive surgeons, psychologists, and life-care planners to calculate the full lifetime cost of your injuries.
Identifying Insurance Coverage
Serious dog attack cases require sufficient insurance coverage to fund adequate compensation. Sources include:
- Homeowner’s insurance — most policies cover dog bite liability, typically up to $100,000-$300,000 or more
- Renter’s insurance — may cover tenant-owned dogs
- Umbrella policies — additional coverage above the base homeowner’s policy
- Business insurance — if the attack occurred at a commercial property
- Personal assets — in extreme cases, Mr. Desai may pursue the owner’s personal assets beyond insurance limits
Dangerous Dog Designation in California
After a serious attack, California law (Food and Agricultural Code Sections 31601-31683) allows a dog to be declared “vicious” or “potentially dangerous.” This designation can:
- Require the dog to be euthanized if it caused serious injury or death
- Impose strict containment and muzzle requirements
- Create a record that strengthens future claims if the dog attacks again
Attorney Desai assists clients with the administrative process of dangerous dog designation as part of a comprehensive legal strategy.
Why Anand Desai for Serious Dog Attack Cases
Severe dog attacks require a trial lawyer — not a negotiator. With 50+ jury trials, 13 years as an LA County Public Defender, and over 5,000 cases, Anand Desai brings the courtroom credibility needed to push for maximum compensation. His 5.0-star Google rating from 114 reviews, BBB A+ accreditation, and Avvo Clients’ Choice 2025 reflect a commitment to every client. No win, no fee. 11 languages. Serving Glendale, Los Angeles, and all of Southern California.
Frequently Asked Questions About Serious Dog Attacks
What if the dog owner’s insurance says it does not cover certain breeds?
Some homeowner’s policies exclude specific breeds. If the owner’s insurance denies coverage, you may still pursue a claim directly against the owner’s personal assets. Attorney Desai investigates all available coverage.
Can I request that the dog be euthanized after attacking me?
California law allows a court or animal control to order euthanasia for dogs deemed vicious after causing serious injury. Mr. Desai can assist you with the dangerous dog hearing process through local animal control.
What if the dog escaped from a yard or broke its leash?
This strengthens your case. The owner’s failure to adequately contain a dog demonstrates negligence beyond the strict liability standard, potentially supporting additional damages.
How long will my recovery take after a serious dog attack?
Recovery from severe attacks often takes months to years, including multiple surgeries and extensive psychological treatment. Attorney Desai ensures your case accounts for the full duration of recovery before pursuing settlement.
Can I recover compensation for emotional trauma from a dog attack?
Yes. PTSD, anxiety, depression, and fear of animals are all compensable damages in California. Attorney Desai works with psychologists to document the psychological impact and ensure it is fully valued in your claim.
Free Consultation — Call Anand Desai Now
You survived a terrifying attack. Now let someone fight for you. Call (833) 270-7800 for a free consultation, or contact us online. Available 24/7. No win, no fee.