01

Start with the event

Seek appropriate medical care, identify the animal and the people controlling it, photograph injuries over time, and keep damaged clothing.

02

Build the record

Save animal-control or police reports, vaccination information, witness details, property information, communications, and insurer contacts.

03

Prepare the legal questions

State statutes and local ordinances differ. Ask which rule applies and whether ownership, knowledge, control, provocation, or location matters.

04

Contact and insurance log

Keep a dated log of reports, claim numbers, requests, responses, appointments, expenses, and decisions. Distinguish what you observed from what another person said or a record states.

05

Use the file in a consultation

Bring the shortest accurate chronology you can prepare, the most important original records or secure copies, and three questions. A lawyer can identify gaps without requiring you to solve the legal issues first.