Dog Bites & Animal Attacks in Corpus Christi: When a Beloved Pet Causes Serious Harm

Dogs are beloved companions, but even the friendliest dog can bite when provoked, frightened, or poorly trained. In Corpus Christi and throughout the Coastal Belt, dog bites and animal attacks are more common than many people realize. A walk through a neighborhood in Flour Bluff, a visit to a park on the Southside, a delivery to a home on Ocean Drive—these everyday activities can turn into a nightmare when a dog attacks. The consequences can be devastating: severe lacerations, permanent scarring, nerve damage, infections, and even death. Children are especially vulnerable. In Corpus Christi and throughout the Coastal Belt, dog bite cases require attorneys who understand Texas’s unique dog bite laws, the concept of strict liability, and the strategies for holding owners accountable.

At Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we represent individuals and families throughout Corpus Christi and the Coastal Belt who have been injured in dog bites and animal attacks. Whether you were attacked by a neighbor’s dog, a dog at a park, or an animal at a business, we provide the knowledgeable, aggressive representation you need to seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve. With extensive experience in dog bite litigation, we guide our clients through every stage of the complex claims process.

Understanding Dog Bite Law in Texas

Texas has a unique approach to dog bite liability. Unlike many states that have “strict liability” for dog bites, Texas follows a combination of statutory law and common law principles.

Texas’s “One Bite” Rule

Under Texas common law, a dog owner is not automatically liable for a first bite. Instead, the owner must have known that the dog had dangerous propensities. This is often called the “one bite” rule. However, there are significant exceptions and additional statutes that provide broader protection.

Texas Health and Safety Code § 822.005

This statute creates liability for dog owners if:

• The dog was unprovoked and attacked outside the owner’s property

• The dog caused serious bodily injury or death

• The owner knew of the dog’s dangerous propensities

Strict Liability for Certain Dogs

Some dogs are considered “dangerous” or “vicious” under the law. Owners of such dogs may be held strictly liable for injuries they cause.

Dangerous Dog Definition:

• Makes an unprovoked attack that causes bodily injury

• Commits an unprovoked act that causes a person to reasonably believe they will be injured

Vicious Dog Definition:

• Causes serious bodily injury or death

• Has been previously determined to be dangerous

Local Ordinances

The City of Corpus Christi has its own animal control ordinances that regulate dog ownership, leash laws, and dangerous dog designations.

Common Causes of Dog Bites

Negligent Ownership

• Failure to restrain or leash the dog

• Allowing the dog to roam freely

• Inadequate fencing

• Failure to properly supervise the dog

Known Dangerous Propensities

• Prior bites or attacks

• Aggressive behavior

• History of growling, snapping, or lunging

• Owner’s knowledge of the dog’s dangerousness

Violation of Leash Laws

• Dogs off-leash in public areas

• Dogs in prohibited areas

• Failure to control the dog

Provocation

While provocation can be a defense, not all behavior that seems provocative to a dog owner is legally provocation.

Common Injuries from Dog Bites

Physical Injuries

• Puncture wounds and lacerations

• Avulsion injuries (torn tissue)

• Scarring and disfigurement

• Nerve damage

• Fractures and broken bones (from being knocked down)

• Infections (rabies, tetanus, cellulitis)

• Crush injuries

• Amputations (in severe cases)

Psychological Injuries

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Fear of dogs (cynophobia)

• Anxiety and depression

• Nightmares and sleep disturbances

Children’s Injuries

Children are most vulnerable to dog attacks. They are often bitten on the face, head, and neck due to their height. Dog bites to children can cause:

• Permanent facial scarring

• Eye injuries

• Psychological trauma

• Developmental issues

Proving a Dog Bite Case

Step 1: Seek Medical Care

Seek immediate medical attention. Dog bites can cause serious infections. Document all injuries.

Step 2: Identify the Dog and Owner

• Obtain the owner’s name and contact information

• Get the dog’s rabies vaccination records

• Report the bite to Animal Control

Step 3: Preserve Evidence

• Photograph your injuries

• Photograph the dog

• Photograph the location

• Obtain witness information

• Keep all medical records

Step 4: Report the Bite

Report the bite to Corpus Christi Animal Control. An investigation will be conducted.

Step 5: Consult an Attorney

An experienced dog bite attorney can evaluate your case and advise you on your rights.

Step 6: Investigation

Your attorney conducts a thorough investigation, including:

• Obtaining Animal Control records

• Investigating prior complaints about the dog

• Interviewing neighbors and witnesses

• Reviewing the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s behavior

Step 7: Identify Responsible Parties

Multiple parties may be liable:

• Dog owner

• Property owner (if the attack occurred on their property)

• Landlord (if they knew of the dangerous dog)

• Dog walker or caretaker

Step 8: Demand and Negotiation

Your attorney sends a demand letter and negotiates with the dog owner’s insurance company.

Step 9: Litigation

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney files a lawsuit and pursues your claim in court.

Defenses in Dog Bite Cases

Provocation

If the victim provoked the dog, the owner may not be liable. Provocation includes teasing, hitting, or tormenting the dog.

Trespassing

If the victim was trespassing on the owner’s property, the owner may not be liable.

Assumption of Risk

If the victim knowingly approached a dog with known dangerous propensities, assumption of risk may be a defense.

Lack of Knowledge

If the owner had no knowledge of the dog’s dangerous propensities, they may not be liable under the “one bite” rule.

Damages in Dog Bite Cases

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses (past and future)

• Lost wages and earning capacity

• Scar revision surgery

• Physical therapy

• Counseling

• Reconstructive surgery

Noneconomic Damages

• Pain and suffering

• Mental anguish

• Scarring and disfigurement

• Loss of enjoyment of life

• Fear of dogs

Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may be available.

The Dog Bite Case Process

Step 1: Immediate Medical Care

Seek medical attention immediately. Dog bites can cause serious infections.

Step 2: Report the Bite

Report the bite to Animal Control. Obtain a copy of the report.

Step 3: Preserve Evidence

• Photograph injuries

• Photograph the dog

• Photograph the scene

• Obtain witness information

• Keep all medical records

Step 4: Consult an Attorney

An experienced dog bite attorney can evaluate your case and advise you on your rights.

Step 5: Investigation

Your attorney conducts a thorough investigation, including:

• Obtaining Animal Control records

• Investigating prior complaints

• Interviewing witnesses

• Documenting the owner’s knowledge

Step 6: Demand and Negotiation

Your attorney sends a demand letter and negotiates with the dog owner’s insurance company.

Step 7: Litigation

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney files a lawsuit and pursues your claim in court.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bites & Animal Attacks

What is the “one bite” rule in Texas?

Under the “one bite” rule, a dog owner may not be liable for a first bite unless they knew the dog had dangerous propensities. However, there are significant exceptions and additional statutes.

What is the statute of limitations for dog bite claims?

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the bite to file a personal injury lawsuit.

What damages can I recover?

You may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in cases of death, funeral expenses and loss of companionship.

What if the dog has never bitten before?

You may still have a claim if the owner knew of the dog’s dangerous propensities—such as growling, snapping, or aggressive behavior.

What is a dangerous dog under Texas law?

A dangerous dog is one that makes an unprovoked attack that causes bodily injury or commits an unprovoked act that causes a person to reasonably believe they will be injured.

Can I sue if the dog was on the owner’s property?

Yes, if you were lawfully on the property (invitee or licensee) and the dog attacked without provocation.

What if I was bitten by a dog at a business?

Businesses may be liable for dog bites on their premises if they knew or should have known of the dog’s presence and dangerous propensities.

How long does a dog bite case take?

The timeline varies. Some cases settle quickly; others may take months or years to resolve.

Do I need an attorney for a dog bite case?

Yes. Dog bite cases involve complex legal issues regarding the “one bite” rule, provocation, and trespassing. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the process and maximize your recovery.

How much does it cost to hire a dog bite attorney?

Most dog bite attorneys work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and the attorney is paid a percentage of any recovery.

Why Barton & Associates Is the Right Choice for Your Dog Bite Case

Dog bite cases require attorneys who understand Texas’s unique “one bite” rule, the concept of strict liability for dangerous dogs, and the strategies for proving that an owner knew of a dog’s dangerous propensities. At Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we have extensive experience representing dog bite victims in Corpus Christi and throughout the Coastal Belt.

Our attorneys understand the importance of preserving evidence, the need for Animal Control records, and the strategies for proving prior knowledge of dangerous behavior. We work closely with our clients to investigate the facts, gather evidence, and build a compelling case for full compensation.

We also understand that dog bites can be traumatic, especially for children. Our attorneys approach each case with compassion and dedication, helping our clients navigate the legal system while focusing on healing.

Seek Justice for Dog Bite Injuries Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog bite or animal attack in Corpus Christi, you have the right to seek justice. Do not wait. Evidence can be lost, and statutes of limitations are strict.

Contact the experienced dog bite attorneys at Barton & Associates today. Call us directly at 361-800-6780 to speak with a member of our team. You may also complete the Free Consultation form on our website, and we will reach out to you promptly. Please note that all on-site consultations at our Corpus Christi office are by appointment only, ensuring that we can give your case the focused attention it requires.

Reach out today—let us help you hold dog owners accountable and recover the compensation you deserve.

Main Category: Personal Injury Corpus Christi
Practice Area Category: Workplace & On-Site Injuries
Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law
5110 Wilkinson Dr Suite 210, Corpus Christi, TX 78415
Office: 361-800-6780