Ohio is a strict liability state for dog bites — meaning you don't have to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. If you were bitten or attacked by a dog in Eastlake or Lake County, The Henry Law Firm can help you recover compensation for your injuries, medical bills, scarring, and emotional trauma.
Dog Bite Injuries Are More Serious Than They First Appear
Puncture wounds carry a high risk of infection, including MRSA and other serious bacterial infections. Nerve damage may not be apparent immediately. Scarring can be permanent and may require reconstructive surgery. The full cost of a dog bite in Eastlake often exceeds what homeowner's insurance initially offers.
Ohio's Strict Liability Dog Bite Law
Under Ohio Revised Code § 955.28(B), dog owners are strictly liable when their dog injures someone. This means you do not need to prove the owner was negligent or knew the dog was dangerous. The only defenses available to the owner are that the victim was trespassing, committing a crime, or provoking the dog.
Additionally, Ohio Revised Code § 955.22 defines particular dogs as 'vicious' or 'dangerous,' imposing additional responsibilities on their owners, including special containment and insurance requirements.
Common Dog Bite Injuries
- Puncture wounds and deep lacerations
- Crush injuries from powerful jaw pressure
- Broken bones — especially in hands, arms, and legs
- Infections — including rabies, tetanus, MRSA, and pasteurella
- Nerve damage and loss of function
- Permanent scarring and disfigurement
- Facial injuries — especially in children who are bitten at face height
- Emotional trauma — PTSD, anxiety, and lasting fear of dogs
Dog Bite Claims for Children
Children are the most frequent victims of dog bites. In Eastlake and throughout Ohio, children under 10 are bitten at the highest rates and are most likely to sustain bites to the face and head. Parents or legal guardians can file a claim on behalf of a minor child. The statute of limitations does not begin to run until the child turns 18, but it is best to act quickly while evidence and memories are fresh.
Under ORC § 955.28, an Ohio dog owner is liable if their dog bites a person while the person is on public or private property and not committing criminal trespass or otherwise torturing the dog. Comparative negligence may apply if the victim was provoking the animal. The Henry Law Firm evaluates every Eastlake dog bite fact pattern against this statute.
Ohio Strict Liability Works in Your Favor
Unlike states that require proof the owner knew the dog was dangerous, Ohio imposes strict liability on dog owners for bites that occur while the victim is lawfully on the premises. The Henry Law Firm uses this legal advantage to build your Eastlake dog bite claim efficiently.
Your Attorney: Eric Henry
Eric Henry's career is defined by fighting for people who've been hurt by someone else's negligence. More than $50 million recovered. More than 1,000 cases resolved. Over 15 years serving Ohio.
Eric and his team proudly serve residents of Eastlake and Lake County from offices in Chagrin Falls and Cleveland.
What Our Clients Say
"Mr. Henry was extremely helpful through a tragic period of great loss and grief. He assisted me in navigating through uncharted territory. His compassion was extended throughout the entire process." — Brandy J., Google Review
"The Henry Law Firm did an outstanding job handling my medical malpractice case. They were professional, compassionate, and really took the time to explain all my options. I felt supported throughout." — Henry P., Google Review
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ohio a strict liability state for dog bites?
Yes. Under Ohio Revised Code § 955.28(B), a dog owner is strictly liable for injuries their dog causes — regardless of whether the dog has ever bitten before. This means you do not need to prove the owner knew the dog was dangerous. The owner is responsible as long as you were not trespassing or provoking the dog.
What compensation can I get for a dog bite in Eastlake?
You can recover medical expenses (emergency treatment, surgery, rabies shots, reconstructive/plastic surgery), lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and disfigurement, and future medical treatment. Children are frequently victims and may require long-term psychological counseling.
What should I do after a dog bite?
Seek immediate medical attention (dog bites have high infection rates), identify the dog and its owner, report the bite to your local health department and animal control, photograph your injuries and the location, get witnesses' contact information, and contact a dog bite lawyer before speaking with the dog owner's insurance company.
Other Practice Areas in Eastlake
The Henry Law Firm handles a full range of personal injury cases for Eastlake residents. Explore our other practice areas:
Car Accident Lawyer
Truck Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Wrongful Death Lawyer
Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
Slip and Fall Lawyer
Premises Liability Lawyer
Serving Eastlake from Our Ohio Offices
The Henry Law Firm serves Eastlake and all of Lake County from two convenient locations:
- 8401 Chagrin Road, Suite 18, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
- 850 Euclid Ave, Suite 1012, Cleveland, OH 44114
We offer free consultations by phone, video, or in person. If your injuries prevent you from traveling, we can come to you anywhere in Lake County. Call (216) 302-9500 to schedule.
Dog Bite in Eastlake? Call The Henry Law Firm for a Free Case Review.
Ohio strict liability law may entitle you to full compensation. Free consultation at (216) 302-9500. Serving Lake County. No fee unless we win.
Content reviewed by Eric Henry, Esq. — Last updated April 2026.
