Fatal Mauling a Reminder of the Danger Imposed by Dogs

If you own a dog, it is hard to imagine that your pet could attack you. Dogs are considered to be “man’s best friend,” but the millions of dog bites each year tell a different story. A fatal dog attack that occurred this last summer, acts as a deadly reminder of the dangers imposed by dogs.

Many dog owners treat their canines as if they are members of the family. It is easy to forget that dogs are animals and that they have sharp teeth that can act as weapons when needed. This fine line between predator and pet is often crossed, leading to serious dog bites and fatal attacks.

A couple in our neighboring state was killed by a pack of dogs near their home. Sherry Schweder took her evening walk as normal along a country road in Georgia in August. Investigators believe that she was the victim of a dog attack by a pack of canines. When Lothar Schweder, Sherry’s husband went looking for her, he too became a mauling victim and was killed.

Even though dog attacks are usually not fatal, from January 2009 to August 2009, 20 people across the country died from dog bite injuries. It is estimated that every year, approximately 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs and almost 900,000 of the victims require medical treatment. Nearly 31,000 of the dog bite victims have to undergo surgery.

Dogs bite for many reasons and according to experts, one of the main reasons is their predatory behavior. Dog attacks have also been linked to medical problems, possessiveness, fear, aggression and protection of territory.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dog attack, contact an experienced injury lawyer in St. Petersburg at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for legal advice. You may be able to hold the dog owner accountable for your injuries.