What to Do First After a Dog Bite in Texas
                     WHAT TO DO FIRST 
AFTER A DOG BITE 
IN TEXAS
GET TO SAFETY
The first thing to do after a dog bite is to move away from the animal to 
prevent further injury. Make sure you are in a safe place and that the 
dog is restrained or no longer nearby.
CLEAN THE WOUND IMMEDIATELY
Wash the bite area gently with soap and clean water as soon as 
possible. This helps reduce the risk of infection. If the wound is 
bleeding, apply light pressure with a clean cloth to slow or stop the 
bleeding.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
Even if the bite seems minor, it is important to see a doctor. Dog bites 
can cause infections, nerve damage, or other complications that are not 
immediately visible. A healthcare provider can also determine whether 
you need stitches, antibiotics, or a tetanus or rabies shot.
IDENTIFY THE DOG AND ITS OWNER
Try to get the name and contact information of the dog’s owner. Also 
ask whether the dog is up to date on its rabies vaccinations. If the 
owner is not present or refuses to cooperate, note where the incident 
occurred and what the dog looked like.
REPORT THE BITE
In Texas, dog bites should be reported to local animal control or the 
health department. Reporting helps protect others and creates an 
official record of the incident, which can be important later.
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING
Take photos of your injuries, the location where the bite happened, and 
any torn clothing. Write down details about what happened, including 
the date, time, and any witnesses. Keep copies of medical bills and 
records related to the bite.
UNDERSTAND TEXAS DOG BITE LAWS
Texas follows the “one-bite rule,” meaning a dog owner may be held 
responsible if they knew or should have known their dog was 
dangerous. However, owners can also be liable if they were negligent, 
such as failing to leash or control their dog in public.
ABOUT CHELSIE KING GARZA, P.C.
An experienced Texas Dog Bite Lawyer helps victims pursue medical 
costs and justice. With proven advocacy and compassionate guidance, 
Chelsie King Garza, P.C. stands at the center of your case, protecting 
rights, negotiating insurers, and pursuing fair compensation across 
Texas.
CONCLUSION
After a dog bite in Texas, acting quickly and carefully is essential. 
Getting to safety, cleaning the wound, seeking medical care, and 
reporting the incident can protect your health and your rights. Proper 
documentation and understanding Texas dog bite laws can also help if 
further action is needed. By taking these steps, you can reduce 
complications and ensure the situation is handled responsibly.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Email - [email protected]
Phone - 713-893-8808
Address - 3663 N. Sam Houston Parkway E. #200 Houston, Texas 77032
Website - https://chelsiegarzalaw.com