It can sometimes be difficult to identify whether or not one may be entitled to dog bite compensation. It is important to remember that all dogs can be a potential hazard, no matter what their size or breed, and that attacks can occur in public or private places, such as the home.

Seeking medical advice for an attack is the most important immediate action to take, but be sure to take note of what medical problems you are treated for and, if possible, record the name and details of the dog owner. Taking these simple steps can help improve your claim for compensation.

The Dog Control Bill will reach the final stage in the House of Lords after the summer recess and will then go to the House of Commons for further consideration. The Bill will make changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, which focuses on banning certain breeds. Under the new Bill, notices will be issued to dog owners at an early stage of problematic behaviour. The focus will shift more to responsible ownership and the idea that any dog can be aggressive if not properly controlled. It is hoped that the new Bill will result in fewer dog bite injuries.

Dog bite claims are currently being affected by dogs not having the correct medical immunization, which is legally needed. The owner of a dog is responsible for getting their dog immunized against certain dangerous diseases. If the owner fails to do this, then they leave themselves open to potential dog bite claims and compensation pay outs. This is because getting bitten by a dog which has not been immunized is a very dangerous thing a leaves people open to all sorts of diseases.

Often it is who a victim thinks about making a claim against that puts them off. This is usually because the victim feels that they would never win a dog bite compensation claim against a large company, a prominent individual or somebody who they feel is more legally knowledgeable than themselves. However the fact police forces paid out £770,000 in dog bite compensation claims, found in a survey earlier this year, should give victims the confidence to go after the compensation they deserve. It shows that no matter who the owner of the dog is, dog bite law does not treat any organisation or individual as an exception to the rule.

A Welsh postman who has first-hand dog bite experience is helping a new Royal Mail campaign to promote greater consideration from dog owners. David Power sustained mild injuries from a dog bite two years ago when a Spanish sheepdog attacked him on his round.