What Parents Need to Know About Dog Attacks on Children in Indiana
Dog bites are among the most traumatic injuries a child can experience, and they happen more often than many parents realize. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), children account for more than 50% of all dog bite victims, with the highest risk group being kids aged 5 to 9. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 800,000 Americans receive medical attention for dog bites each year, and children are far more likely to suffer serious injury, especially to the face, neck, and hands.
As a dog bite lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley understands just how devastating these attacks can be, not only for the child physically and emotionally, but for the entire family trying to navigate medical bills, psychological trauma, and questions of liability. While dogs may be considered beloved companions, even familiar pets can turn aggressive without warning, particularly around children.
Our law firm has represented families struggling after a dog attack in Muncie, Anderson, Plainfield, Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, and Lebanon. As a dedicated personal injury lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley ensures that families are not left alone in recovery.
We approach every case with care and experience, building from local insight, Indiana dog bite law, and real courtroom outcomes. If a dog attacked your child, we’re ready to help you hold the responsible party accountable. As an Indiana accident attorney with community ties and a proven record, Vaughn Wamsley is here to protect your rights and your child’s future.
Why Children in Indiana Are at Greater Risk for Dog Attacks
Size and Behavior Make Children Prime Targets
Children are naturally curious and energetic, unaware of the warning signs dogs give when feeling stressed or threatened. Their height often places their faces within striking distance of a dog’s mouth, making them far more likely than adults to suffer facial, neck, or hand bites. According to the CDC, children are more likely than adults to require medical attention for dog bite injuries, and the wounds are often severe.
Common Scenarios in Indiana Communities
As a seasoned dog bite lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley has handled cases where children were bitten by:
- The family pet, during a routine visit or play session
- A neighbor’s dog that escaped from a fenced yard
- An off-leash dog at a local park or playground
- A guard dog on private property with no visible warning signs
These incidents occur across all types of communities. Dog ownership is high in suburban areas like Carmel, Fishers, and Noblesville, and many families assume their neighborhood pets are safe.
However, even well-trained dogs can become aggressive under stress or when children unknowingly provoke them. In rural towns like Lebanon and Westfield, dogs are often kept outdoors with less supervision. They may be more territorial, posing risks to visiting children or those near the property line.
Where Local Families Seek Emergency Care
Hospitals in central Indiana frequently treat pediatric dog bite injuries. Facilities such as:
- IU Health Ball Memorial in Muncie
- Community Hospital Anderson
- Ascension St. Vincent Carmel
- Riverview Health in Noblesville
These medical facilities see children suffering not just puncture wounds, but torn tissue, infections, and even broken bones in extreme cases. Many require reconstructive surgery or psychological support to recover from the emotional impact of the attack.
A Trusted Advocate for Indiana Parents
As an experienced Indiana accident attorney and personal injury lawyer, Vaughn Wamsley works closely with families to protect their children’s rights and secure the compensation needed for medical care, counseling, and long-term recovery. His firm serves clients in Muncie, Anderson, Plainfield, Fishers, Carmel, Noblesville, Westfield, and Lebanon, offering accessible, trustworthy legal help when families need it most.
The Devastating Impact of Dog Attacks on Children in Indiana
Physical Injuries Often Require Long-Term Medical Care
When a dog attacks a child, the resulting injuries are rarely minor. Children’s small size and vulnerable body parts make them more likely to suffer severe wounds. According to the Indiana State Department of Health, dog bites are one of the leading causes of emergency room visits for children under 10. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that over 27,000 reconstructive procedures are performed each year due to dog bites, many on young children.
As a personal injury lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley has worked with families whose children have suffered:
- Deep puncture wounds and torn skin
- Broken fingers or facial bones
- Severe infections like cellulitis or rabies exposure
- Permanent scarring, disfigurement, and nerve damage
Local trauma centers such as IU Health Ball Memorial in Muncie and Riley Children’s Health in Indianapolis are equipped to handle these cases. Still, the long-term consequences can persist for years even after the wounds heal.
Psychological Trauma: The Wounds You Cannot See
The emotional toll of a dog attack can be just as severe as the physical injuries. Young children may develop:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Nightmares and fear of animals
- Anxiety or panic attacks in public spaces
- Difficulty returning to school or social activities
Psychologists and trauma counselors in communities like Carmel, Anderson, and Noblesville often treat young patients who have survived these attacks but carry the emotional scars long after the physical ones have faded.
Why You Need a Legal Advocate Who Understands the Stakes
Vaughn Wamsley has built his career around protecting those who can’t defend themselves. As a trusted dog bite lawyer in Indiana, he understands how traumatic these events are for the child and the parents. His firm takes a comprehensive approach—helping families access medical experts, mental health resources, and the compensation necessary to cover immediate and future care.
Are Some Types of Dogs More Likely to Bite Than Others?
It’s a sensitive subject, but one that matters when discussing the safety of children around dogs. While any breed is capable of biting under the wrong circumstances, studies show that certain breeds are statistically more likely to be involved in serious or fatal attacks, especially involving children.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and data compiled by the CDC, the breeds most frequently associated with severe bite injuries include:
- Pit Bulls
- Rottweilers
- German Shepherds
- Huskies
- Doberman Pinschers
- Chow Chows
- Mixed breeds with dominant aggressive traits
A comprehensive 15-year study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that Pit Bulls and Rottweilers were involved in over half of dog bite fatalities nationwide, though it’s important to note that breed identification in attacks is not always accurate or consistent.
What This Means in Indiana
Indiana law does not ban specific dog breeds, and there is no state-level “dangerous breed” list. However, some municipalities—such as certain neighborhoods in Anderson or Westfield—may impose leash or containment ordinances for breeds deemed higher-risk.
That said, Indiana Code § 15-20-1-3 holds owners strictly liable for unprovoked bites regardless of breed when the victim is in a public place or lawfully on private property. In cases involving children, courts often evaluate:
- The dog’s bite history
- Whether the breed has a known tendency for aggression
- The owner’s actions (or inaction) in supervising and restraining the dog
- Whether proper warning signage or fencing was in place
As a dog bite lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley has handled cases involving a variety of breeds and circumstances. The breed may influence how insurers or courts view risk and liability—but it’s the owner’s responsibility, not the animal’s genetics, that ultimately determines legal fault.
Why This Matters for Your Child’s Case
You may be entitled to compensation if a dog injured your child—regardless of its breed. But building a strong claim requires investigating the dog’s background, the owner’s handling practices, and whether prior incidents were ignored or covered up.
With clients across Muncie, Fishers, Plainfield, Carmel, Noblesville, Anderson, Lebanon, and Westfield, attorney Vaughn Wamsley understands how to navigate both the emotional and legal complexities of these cases. As a trusted Indiana accident attorney, he combines local knowledge, medical documentation, and animal behavior evidence to pursue justice for injured children.
What Indiana Law Says About Dog Bites Involving Minors
When a child is bitten by a dog in Indiana, the law offers specific protections and avenues for recovery. Unlike some states that require the victim to prove the dog had a history of aggression, Indiana law allows for strict liability in many cases, particularly when the victim is a child and was lawfully on the property or in a public place at the time of the incident.
Indiana Code § 15-20-1-3: The Core of the Law
Under Indiana Code § 15-20-1-3, a dog owner may be held strictly liable if:
- The bite occurred while the victim was in a public place or lawfully on private property
- The bite was unprovoked
- The victim did not trespass or engage in behavior that could reasonably provoke the dog
The law applies regardless of whether the dog has bitten anyone before. This means parents don’t need to prove the dog was “dangerous” or had a known history of violence to file a valid injury claim.
As an experienced dog bite lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley regularly cites this statute when negotiating with insurers and pursuing damages for child victims. He ensures the full facts of the incident are documented—often with evidence from animal control reports, eyewitness testimony, and medical records from providers like IU Health Ball Memorial or Riley Children’s Hospital.
Special Legal Considerations for Minors
When a child is bitten, the legal process requires a parent or guardian to file the claim on the child’s behalf. Indiana courts may also require that any settlement funds be held in trust or reviewed for approval to protect the child’s long-term needs.
In more severe cases—especially when permanent scarring, disability, or emotional trauma is involved—a guardian ad litem may be appointed to evaluate whether a settlement serves the child’s best interest.
This is where a skilled Indiana accident attorney like Vaughn Wamsley becomes essential. He pursues full financial compensation for injuries and treatment and helps families navigate the court’s requirements and protect their child’s future.
Recoverable Damages in Indiana Dog Bite Claims Involving Children
If a dog bit your child, your family may be entitled to recover for:
- Emergency and follow-up medical treatment
- Plastic or reconstructive surgery
- Psychological counseling and trauma therapy
- Pain and suffering (both physical and emotional)
- Disfigurement or disability
- Future medical or therapeutic needs
In some instances, punitive damages may also be available if the dog’s owner acted with gross negligence, such as knowingly allowing a dangerous dog to roam free near children.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Dog Attack in Indiana
When a dog bites a child, the steps taken in the first few hours can make a significant difference — not only in medical recovery but in building a strong legal claim. As a dog bite lawyer in Indiana who has represented families throughout Muncie, Anderson, Fishers, Carmel, Plainfield, Noblesville, Lebanon, and Westfield, Vaughn Wamsley emphasizes the importance of swift and informed action.
1. Get Medical Attention — Even for Seemingly Minor Bites
Children’s immune systems and skin are more vulnerable than adults’. Even a small puncture can lead to infection, nerve damage, or permanent scarring. A medical professional should clean, document, and evaluate all bites.
Nearby medical facilities include:
- IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital – Muncie
- Ascension St. Vincent Anderson
- Riley Children’s Health – Indianapolis
- Riverview Health – Noblesville
- Franciscan Health – Carmel and Plainfield
Proving that you sought prompt treatment will also help establish the seriousness of the injury in any future claim.
2. Report the Bite to Animal Control or Local Authorities
In Indiana, dog bites should be reported to local animal control or the county health department. These agencies can:
- Initiate a bite investigation
- Determine if the dog is up to date on rabies vaccinations.
- Issue citations or quarantine orders if necessary
In Delaware County (Muncie area), contact:
- Delaware County Animal Control: (765) 747-4851
For surrounding areas, such as Hamilton County (Fishers, Noblesville) or Hendricks County (Plainfield), similar reporting procedures apply. Vaughn Wamsley’s office can assist you with locating and filing the proper reports if needed.
3. Document Everything Immediately
The more evidence you can collect, the stronger your claim will be. Document:
- Photos of the child’s injuries (before and after treatment)
- Photos of the dog (if possible) and the scene
- Witness contact information
- Copies of medical bills and discharge summaries
Also note the dog owner’s name, address, and any known history of aggression or prior bites.
4. Do Not Speak with the Dog Owner’s Insurance Company Alone
Insurers may reach out quickly after a reported attack — often to collect a statement or offer a low settlement. Avoid discussing the incident with any insurer before speaking with a personal injury lawyer in Indiana who has handled dog bite cases.
Attorney Vaughn Wamsley provides free consultations to help parents understand their rights before making any decisions. The focus is on protecting your child — not on helping the insurer minimize its payout.
5. Contact a Vaughn A. Wamsley Early
The sooner you contact an experienced Indiana accident attorney, the better. With more than 30 years of experience in injury law, you can count on Vaughn A. Wamsley to take the right steps to protect your claim. This includes taking time to:
- Secure witness statements and video footage before it’s lost
- Obtain the dog’s vaccination and bite history through subpoenas
- Coordinate with pediatric surgeons or therapists for expert input
- File a claim within Indiana’s statute of limitations
Dog bite cases involving children are especially sensitive — both emotionally and legally. Having a local attorney who understands the court system in Muncie, Carmel, Anderson, and beyond can make a real difference in the outcome of your case.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Dog Bite in Indiana?
Many parents assume the dog owner is the only liable party after a dog attack on a child. While that is often the case, Indiana law recognizes that liability can extend beyond the person holding the leash—especially when the attack involves a minor, occurs on private property, or involves a history of prior aggression.
As an experienced dog bite lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley thoroughly investigates every angle of potential responsibility to ensure injured children and their families receive full compensation.
1. The Dog Owner
Under Indiana Code § 15-20-1-3, the dog’s owner is typically the first and most direct source of liability. If the child was bitten while lawfully on public property or invited onto private property—and the bite was unprovoked—the owner is strictly liable, even if the dog had never bitten before.
This law applies across the state, whether the bite occurred in Muncie, Plainfield, Noblesville, or a rural backyard in Lebanon.
2. A Landlord or Property Owner
In some cases, the owner of the property where the dog was kept may also share legal responsibility, particularly if:
- They knew the dog was dangerous and failed to act
- The attack occurred in a common area, such as an apartment complex courtyard
- The dog was kept on the premises without proper fencing or warning signs
Courts in Indiana have held that landlords may be liable if they exercised control over the property and ignored known risks posed by a tenant’s dog.
3. A Business or Event Host
Was the child bitten while attending a public event or while on commercial property (such as a pet-friendly restaurant or park)? If so, the business owner or organizer may be held responsible for:
- Failing to implement reasonable safety policies
- Allowing aggressive dogs into public areas
- Not enforcing leash or containment rules
These types of cases often involve complex legal questions and require the guidance of a seasoned Indiana accident attorney who understands premises liability and personal injury law.
4. A Third-Party Caretaker or Dog Walker
If someone other than the dog’s owner was responsible for the dog at the time of the attack—such as a dog walker, pet sitter, or friend watching the animal—they may also face liability, especially if their negligence contributed to the attack.
For example, if the caretaker allowed the dog off-leash in a public park in Carmel or Fishers, they may be considered partially or fully at fault under Indiana law.
With a wide range of potential legal paths, determining who is liable in a child dog bite case requires careful investigation. Vaughn Wamsley has successfully represented families throughout Indiana, providing a focused legal strategy to identify all responsible parties and build a strong claim.
How We Help Families Recover After a Dog Bite
As a trusted personal injury lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley has helped families across Muncie, Fishers, Plainfield, Noblesville, Carmel, Anderson, Lebanon, and Westfield navigate dog bite cases’ emotional and legal complexity. We can handle cases of all severity and help you navigate the injury claim process.
Our Dedication to Accident Victims
We believe one of the best ways to learn about an incident is to listen to the victim’s story. We take time to understand what happened and how it has impacted the child and their family. From that point, we will:
- Gather critical evidence such as medical records, incident reports, and photos.
- Work with pediatric experts to assess long-term treatment needs.
- Investigate the dog’s history, owner conduct, and property conditions.
- Handle all communication with insurance companies so families don’t have to.
- Build a compelling case for full compensation, whether in settlement or court.
Many of our clients are referred by local physicians, therapists, and even other attorneys who trust Vaughn Wamsley’s record of results and reputation for compassionate representation.
Real Results for Real Families
In one recent case, a young girl from Anderson was bitten by a neighbor’s unleashed dog while playing in her front yard. The injury required stitches and resulted in a visible scar on her face. Our team worked to get her and her family compensation that covered all current and future expenses related to the incident.
Our clients often tell us that the most significant relief comes not from the financial outcome, but from knowing someone truly understands what they’re going through and is willing to stand up for them.
“Vaughn didn’t just treat our daughter’s case like a file number—he treated her like a person. He fought for her like she was his own.”
— Parent of a dog bite victim in Noblesville
Ready to Help Your Family Move Forward
You deserve an attorney who understands these cases and has the local experience to get results. As a seasoned Indiana accident attorney and father, Vaughn Wamsley knows what’s at stake when a child is hurt. Every case we take is handled with the urgency and care it deserves.
FAQ: Dog Bites and Children in Indiana
What should I do if my child is bitten by a dog in Indiana?
Get immediate medical care, report the incident to local authorities, and contact a dog bite attorney to protect your child’s rights.
Can I sue the dog’s owner if my child was bitten?
Yes. Indiana law holds dog owners strictly liable in many cases, especially when the victim is lawfully on the property and the bite is unprovoked.
Are certain breeds more dangerous for children?
Statistically, breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers are more likely to be involved in severe attacks, but Indiana law focuses on the owner’s actions, not the breed alone.
Who pays for medical bills after a dog bite?
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may come from the dog owner’s homeowners insurance, a landlord, or other responsible parties.
How long do I have to file a dog bite claim in Indiana?
Generally, you have two years from the incident date, though different rules may apply when the victim is a minor.
Your Child Deserves Justice — Let Vaughn A. Wamsley Help You Get It
If your child has been bitten or attacked by a dog, the physical and emotional scars can last a lifetime. But you are not powerless, and you are not alone.
At our firm, we fight for injured children across Muncie, Carmel, Noblesville, Plainfield, Fishers, Anderson, Westfield, and Lebanon. As a dedicated dog bite lawyer in Indiana, Vaughn Wamsley will personally guide your family through every step of the process with care, clarity, and commitment.
We’ll help you understand your rights, deal with medical bills and insurance pressure, and pursue the compensation your child needs to heal fully. And we’ll do it with compassion—because this isn’t just another case to us. It’s your child’s future.
Call us today for a free consultation. We’re here when it matters most.
Additional Resources for Dog Accident Victims (and Families)
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