Dog bites have been around for as long as humans and canines have interacted. While some breeds are known to be more aggressive than others, dogs of any size and in any setting can cause an injury without warning. In the last few years, even The White House had problems with repeated biting incidents involving the president’s pets. Though these types of animal attacks have always been a cause for concern, data shows that there has been a marked increase in dog bite injuries since 2020.

Fatal dog attacks across the country once averaged around 40 per year. Now, this number has alarmingly risen to nearly 100, and you might be surprised as to what experts cite as a key cause. One well-documented trend during the COVID-19 pandemic was a wave in dog adoptions. Lockdowns meant that many Americans had much more time at home and money to spend. People felt that it was the perfect time to bring a new pet into their household. 

While this surge in adoptions provided companionship during a challenging time, it also introduced dogs into environments that might not have been prepared for them. New pet owners without prior experience may lack the knowledge to train their dogs properly, potentially leading to problematic behaviors. The spike in Americans seeking to bring a dog home could also have persuaded shelters and sellers to put place dogs who otherwise might not have been considered suitable for a family, especially one with young children. 

Additionally, the pandemic itself altered daily routines and stress levels, affecting both humans and pets. Dogs adopted during this period may have experienced inconsistent socialization due to lockdowns, leading to increased anxiety and unpredictable behavior. As normal life resumed, these dogs faced new situations, sometimes without adequate preparation or training to handle them appropriately.

Under New Jersey’s strict liability law, owners are usually legally responsible for dog bite injuries caused by their pets, even if the animal never previously displayed aggressive behavior. Whether an attack can be attributed to the effects of the pandemic, a misguided attempt to create a viral video or any other reason, victims are entitled to compensation for the harm they’ve suffered unless they provoked the incident in some manner.   

If you or a family member required medical treatment after a dog bite, Hollander, Strelzik, Pasculli, Vandenberg, Hontz & Associates, LLC can help. We have offices in Newton and Succasunna, and handle personal injury claims for clients across New Jersey. To schedule a consultation, please call 973-737-1023 or contact us online.