According to sources, a New Jersey woman was bitten by a dog on April 12 after the owner let her dogs run without a leash. The 34-year-old woman's dog biteinjuries required her to seek treatment at a hospital.
The dog attack occurred at about 6:15 p.m. while the 34-year-old was on a rail trail bike path near Taylor Lane in Lacey. A 36-year-old woman from Forked River allowed her two dogs, both black Labrador and pit bull mixes, to walk unleashed. Reports indicate that one of the dogs bit and scratched the 34-year-old.
The 34-year-old woman, a resident of Barnegat, needed treatment at the Community Medical Center in Toms River. Officials from Animal Control and two police officers responded to the scene of the incident. The dogs' owner received a citation for allowing them to run without leashes. Animal Control is also reportedly conducting an investigation into the incident. Sources indicate that both dogs were licensed and had all the proper vaccinations.
Many pet owners believe that their dogs are obedient enough to walk without leashes in public areas. However, even gentle dogs may have unpredictable temperaments in places outside their homes. Pet owners who allow their large-breed dogs to run free in public parks or on public trails may place other people in these areas at risk. Dog bites could potentially cause infection, deep tissue damage or lasting nerve damage. When an individual suffers a dog bite, they could contact an attorney who may be able to provide advice about filing a claim against the dog's owner.