Dog Bites and Animal Attacks in Mississippi: What Victims Should Know

Jan 21 2026 17:00

Dog bites and other animal attacks can cause serious physical injuries and emotional trauma — especially when the victim is a child or elderly person. Beyond the pain and fear, many victims face expensive medical bills, lost income, and lasting scars.

 

At Frank Shaw Law Firm, we help Mississippi victims of dog bites and animal attacks understand their legal rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured, knowing what Mississippi law says — and how to act quickly — can make all the difference.

Understanding Mississippi’s Dog Bite Law

 

Mississippi does not have a statewide “strict liability” dog bite statute like some other states. Instead, courts typically apply what’s known as the “one-bite rule.”

Under this rule, a dog owner may be held liable if:

  1. The dog had shown previous aggression or dangerous behavior, and

  2. The owner knew (or should have known) about the dog’s tendency to bite or attack.

However, that doesn’t mean victims are left without options. In many cases, liability can also be established through negligence — for example, if the owner failed to leash or properly restrain their dog in a public place or allowed it to roam freely in violation of local ordinances.

 

Some Mississippi cities and counties have their own animal control laws that make it easier to prove an owner’s responsibility if those local leash or restraint laws were ignored.

Common Injuries from Dog Bites and Animal Attacks

 

Dog attacks can cause far more than surface wounds. Victims often experience:

  • Deep puncture wounds and lacerations

  • Broken bones or crush injuries

  • Nerve damage

  • Facial disfigurement and scarring

  • Infections, including rabies or staph

  • Post-traumatic stress and anxiety

Even a “minor” bite can lead to complications, so it’s important to seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to local authorities.

Steps to Take After a Dog Bite in Mississippi

 

If you or a loved one is bitten by a dog or other animal, here’s what to do:

  1. Seek Medical Care Right Away
    Even if the injury seems small, dog bites can cause serious infections. Getting prompt medical attention also creates crucial documentation for your claim.

  2. Identify the Animal and Its Owner
    Try to obtain the owner’s name, address, and proof of the dog’s vaccination status. If you cannot identify the owner, notify animal control or the local sheriff’s department.

  3. Report the Attack
    File a report with local animal control or law enforcement. This establishes an official record of the incident.

  4. Document Everything
    Take photos of your injuries, the animal, the scene, and any torn clothing. Keep copies of medical bills and written statements from witnesses.

  5. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
    An experienced attorney can investigate the case, gather evidence of negligence, and deal with insurance companies on your behalf.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Mississippi

 

In most cases, victims may pursue compensation through the homeowner’s or renter’s insurance of the dog’s owner. This can help cover:

  • Medical expenses (treatment, medication, rehabilitation)

  • Lost wages if you’re unable to work

  • Pain and suffering

  • Emotional distress or trauma

  • Permanent scarring or disfigurement

Statute of Limitations

 

Under Mississippi law, victims generally have three years from the date of the attack to file a personal injury lawsuit. Waiting too long could result in losing your right to compensation, so it’s critical to act promptly.

How Frank Shaw Law Firm Helps Victims of Dog Bites

 

At Frank Shaw Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a dog bite can cause. Our legal team provides:

  • Free Case Evaluation: We’ll review your case and explain your legal options.

  • Thorough Investigation: We gather medical records, witness statements, and any prior complaints about the animal.

  • Insurance Negotiations: We handle all communication with insurers so you can focus on recovery.

  • No-Fee Guarantee: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Our goal is simple — to help you heal, rebuild, and hold negligent pet owners accountable.

Protecting Yourself and Your Family

 

While not every dog is dangerous, it’s important to take precautions around unfamiliar animals:

  • Never approach a dog without the owner’s permission.

  • Avoid disturbing a dog that’s eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies.

  • Teach children how to behave calmly and safely around animals.

These simple steps can help prevent serious injuries — but when negligence causes harm, victims have the right to seek justice.

Get Legal Help After a Dog Bite or Animal Attack in Mississippi

 

If you or someone you love has been bitten by a dog or injured in an animal attack, you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone.

 

The experienced attorneys at Frank Shaw Law Firm have helped countless Mississippians recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering after dog bite injuries. We’ll stand by your side every step of the way. Give us a call today at (662) 289-4740 to speak to one of our attorneys about your claim.