If you’ve suffered a dog bite, you may be dealing with more than just physical pain. The emotional trauma, potential scarring, and financial strain can be overwhelming. But while you focus on recovery, it’s crucial not to forget the time limits for bringing your compensation claims.

In England and Wales, the law gives you a limited window to seek compensation for personal injury. If you miss the window of opportunity, you will find it extremely difficult to open it again.

What is the Time Limit?

The general rule is that you have three years from the date of the dog bite to start legal proceedings. This is known as the “limitation period”. If you miss this deadline, your claim could be time-barred, no matter how strong your case might be.

There are exceptions. For example, if the person bitten was under 18 at the time, the three-year clock doesn’t start ticking until their 18th birthday; effectively giving them until they turn 21 to bring a claim. By bring a claim we mean to issue proceedings in support of the claim. Speaking to a solicitor does not count as starting a claim.

If the injured person lacks mental capacity, the time limit may not apply unless or until capacity is regained. The lack of mental capacity does not have to be because of the injury.

But these exceptions are not guarantees. Courts rarely allow claims outside the standard time limit, and relying on discretion is risky. To benefit from this discretion, you would need to show that it is fair and just to do so, considering factors such as the reason for the delay, the impact on evidence, and whether the defendant would suffer prejudice.

Simply not knowing about the time limit is not sufficient to get court discretion.

That’s why we always advise acting early.

Why Timing Matters

Even if you’re within the three-year period, delaying your claim can make things harder. Evidence can fade, CCTV footage might be deleted, witnesses may forget what they saw, and the dog’s owner could move on. The sooner you speak to a solicitor, the better your chances of building a strong case.

At Ison Harrison, we’ve helped many clients who initially thought they had plenty of time, only to find that key evidence had already disappeared. Early legal advice can make all the difference.

What Should You Do?

After a dog bite, your priority should always be your health. Seek medical attention immediately. Then, if possible, report the incident to the police or local council, take photographs of your injuries, and keep a record of any expenses or time off work.

Once you’re safe and stable, speak to a solicitor who understands the complexities of dog bite claims. That’s where we come in.

How We Can Help

At Ison Harrison, we specialise in dog bite compensation claims. We understand the physical and emotional toll these incidents can take, and we’re here to guide you through the process with compassion and clarity.

We’ll assess your case, explain your options, and handle everything from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers. Where appropriate, we work on a No Win, No Fee basis so there’s no financial risk in getting started.

Don’t Miss Out

Time limits can be unforgiving. If you’ve been injured by a dog, don’t wait until it’s too late. Let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.

For a review and assessment of your dog bite claim get in touch with us today:

• Call: 0113 224 7851
• Email: [email protected]
• Fill in the contact form on this page
• Book a call back at your convenience

If you’ve been bitten or attacked by a dog, the physical and emotional impact can be life-changing. We understand how distressing these incidents can be and we’re here to help you claim the compensation you deserve.

One of the most common questions we’re asked is: “What can I actually claim for?” The answer lies in understanding the “heads of claim” which are the different categories of loss and damage that can be included in your dog bite compensation claim.

What Are Heads of Claim?

In legal terms, “heads of claim” refer to the specific types of losses you can recover compensation for. These are typically divided into two main categories:

1. General Damages

These cover the pain, suffering, and loss of amenity caused by the injury itself.

• Physical injuries: from puncture wounds and scarring to nerve damage or infection.
• Psychological trauma: including anxiety, PTSD, or fear of dogs following the attack.
• Loss of amenity: if your injury affects your ability to enjoy hobbies, work, or daily life.

2. Special Damages

These are financial losses and expenses you’ve incurred (or will incur) as a result of the injury.

• Loss of earnings: if you’ve had to take time off work or can no longer work.
• Medical expenses: including private treatment, prescriptions, or counselling.
• Travel costs: to and from medical appointments or therapy sessions.
• Care and assistance: if you’ve needed help with daily tasks during recovery.
• Future losses: such as ongoing treatment or long-term care needs.

Why It’s Important to Claim Everything You’re Entitled To

Dog bite injuries can have long-lasting consequences. Some victims are left with permanent scarring or psychological effects that impact their confidence, relationships, and career. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a solicitor who understands the full scope of your losses and how to evidence them properly.

At Ison Harrison, we take a thorough and compassionate approach to every case. We’ll work closely with you to:

• Assess the full impact of your injuries
• Gather medical and financial evidence
• Instruct medical experts where needed
• Maximise your compensation under each head of claim

Why Choose Ison Harrison?

We’re one of the UK’s leading firms for dog bite claims, with a proven track record of securing compensation for victims across Leeds and beyond. Our team offers:

• Free initial advice
• No win, no fee representation
• Specialist personal injury solicitors with experience in animal attack cases
• A client-first approach that puts your recovery and wellbeing at the heart of everything we do

Take the First Step Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, don’t suffer in silence. Contact our expert team today for a free, confidential consultation.

For a review and assessment of your dog bite claim get in touch with us today:

• Call: 0113 224 7851
• Email: [email protected]
• Fill in the contact form on this page
• Book a call back at your convenience

As temperatures soar in this summer heatwave, it is important for families to be extra mindful around dogs. Just like people, dogs can become restless, irritable, and more prone to reacting defensively when they feel uncomfortable or overheated. At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we want to help keep you and your loved ones safe with these five practical tips to avoid dog bites during the warmer weather.

1. Respect a Dog’s Space, Especially When They’re Resting or Cooling Down

Heat can make dogs more sensitive to disturbance. If you see a dog resting in the shade, or near water to cool off, avoid approaching or startling them. Dogs need their space to regulate their body temperature and interrupting them during this vulnerable time can increase the risk of defensive behaviour.

2. Be Cautious Around Dogs in Cars or Enclosed Spaces

During hot weather, dogs trapped in cars or confined areas can become anxious or agitated quickly. Never attempt to interact with or touch a dog that appears stressed or confined, even if they belong to someone you know. If you see a dog in distress in a vehicle, alert the authorities rather than intervening directly.

3. Teach Children to Approach Dogs Calmly and Respectfully

Children should always ask permission before approaching any dog, even familiar pets. They should avoid sudden movements, loud noises, or trying to hug or grab a dog. Calm, gentle behaviour helps dogs feel safe and reduces the chance of biting incidents.

4. Avoid Dog Interaction When They Are Eating, Sleeping, or Caring for Puppies

Dogs can become protective of their food, resting spots, or puppies, especially when feeling hot or stressed. Families should never interrupt or try to take items from a dog in these situations. Giving dogs room to feel secure can prevent defensive reactions.

5. Recognise Warning Signs and Act Responsibly

Dogs may show early signs of distress or discomfort, such as growling, baring teeth, stiffening, or avoiding eye contact. Teaching families to recognise these signals and step away calmly can prevent escalation to a bite.

Why the Heatwave Makes These Tips Even More Important

The summer heat affects dogs’ behaviour by making them physically uncomfortable and less tolerant of stress. Restlessness, irritability, and lower thresholds for reacting are more common, increasing the risk of bite incidents. Being aware of these changes and adapting your behaviour around dogs is a simple but effective way to keep your family safe.

Need Help After a Dog Bite?

If you or a family member has been bitten by a dog, Ison Harrison Solicitors are here to help you understand your rights and secure compensation where appropriate. Our experienced, dedicated team provides clear advice and supportive guidance throughout the claims process.

To find out if you could claim on a no win, no fee basis, contact Claim for Dog Bite on 0113 224 7851 or email [email protected].

Stay safe this summer by respecting dogs’ needs and teaching children how to interact responsibly. Together, we can reduce dog bite incidents and enjoy a safer community for everyone.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be unsure whether it’s worth pursuing a compensation claim. You may be worried about the cost of instructing a solicitor, particularly if you are already dealing with physical injury, emotional distress, or time off work. At Ison Harrison, we are here to make the process clear, accessible, and risk-free so you can concentrate on your recovery.

We can deal with you claim under a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA). This sort of funding agreement is more commonly known as a No Win, No Fee Agreement

What Does ‘No Win-No Fee’ Mean?

Put simply, No Win-No Fee means:

• you do not have to pay any legal fees upfront
• if your claim is unsuccessful, you will not be charged for the work we have done on your case.
• if your claim is successful, a contribution to our fees will be deducted from the compensation you receive.

This type of agreement is designed to remove financial barriers and worries and make justice accessible to anyone who has suffered injury through no fault of their own.

Why It Matters for Dog Bite Victims

Dog bite claims can be complex. Owners may be unknown, insurers may deny liability, or the injuries may be complex and long lasting. In some cases, particularly those involving banned breeds such as XL Bullies, there may be issues with invalid insurance or breaches of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991.

In such cases you need a trusted legal team with experience in both personal injury law and animal liability. With a No Win-No Fee agreement in place, you can pursue your claim without worrying about legal costs adding to your burden.

What Costs Might Apply?

If your claim is successful, a percentage of your compensation is usually deducted to cover your solicitor’s success fee. In most cases we limit this success fee to 25% of the damages recovered, this includes the VAT element.

You may also need After the Event (ATE) insurance to cover disbursements (such as medical reports or court fees). We will guide you through these options and ensure you understand all cost implications before proceeding.

How Ison Harrison Supports You

• Free initial consultation with an experienced solicitor
• Clear explanation of funding options, including No Win-No Fee funding.
• Specialist expertise in dog bite claims, including child injuries and workplace attacks

We understand that a dog bite can be a deeply distressing event. Whether you were bitten in a public place or or injured while working, we’re here to help.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve suffered a dog bite injury, speak to the personal injury specialists at Ison Harrison. We’re here to make the process simple, transparent, and risk-free.

• call us on 0113 224 7851
• email [email protected]
• simply complete and submit the contact form on this page

As the summer months arrive and more of us spend time outdoors, the number of dog bite incidents tends to rise. Warmer weather means more dogs and their owners in parks, on footpaths, and at public gatherings. While most dogs are well behaved, even a friendly animal can react unpredictably in unfamiliar or crowded situations.

If you or a loved one is bitten by a dog this summer, it’s important to understand your legal rights and what steps you should take.

Why Dog Bites Increase in Summer

Several factors contribute to the spike in dog bite cases during the warmer months:

• More frequent outdoor gatherings like barbecues, festivals, and sports events
• Children off school spending more time in parks and public spaces
• Higher temperatures, which can make dogs more irritable and reactive
• Off-lead exercise, often in busy or distracting environments

All of these increase the likelihood of interactions between dogs and people and with it, the risk of injury.

What to Do If You Are Bitten

If you are bitten by a dog, even if the wound seems minor, you should:

1. Seek medical attention immediately: dog bites can lead to infections or, in rare cases, long-term complications.
2. Report the incident to the police: especially if the dog was dangerously out of control.
3. Record as much information as possible: including the dog owner’s details, witness contact information, photos of the injury, and location of the incident.
4. Do not confront the dog’s owner aggressively: but ensure that the owner is aware that the incident has occurred.

Even if the dog has no history of aggression, you may still have grounds to bring a claim, particularly if the owner failed to take reasonable steps to prevent the attack.

Making a Claim After a Dog Bite

In many cases, you can claim compensation for injuries suffered as a result of a dog bite. This may include:

• Pain and suffering
• Psychological trauma
• Loss of earnings
• Medical treatment costs
• Long-term care or rehabilitation

Compensation is typically sought from the dog owner’s insurance either via pet insurance or third-party liability cover included within their household insurance. If the incident occurred on business premises and the dog was an asset of the business such as a working sheep dog or security, then you may be able to claim on their public liability cover. If the dog was used as a weapon, you may be able to make an application to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.

We’re Here to Help

At Ison Harrison we have experience and expertise in dog bite claims and understand the physical and emotional distress they can cause. We offer clear advice and act for you on a no win no fee basis so that if your claim is not successful then you don’t pay for the work we have done.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog this summer, don’t suffer in silence. Contact our expert team today and get the compensation you deserve.

Start your claim today

For a review and assessment of your no win no fee dog bite claim get in touch with us today:

• Call: Mike Massen 0113 224 7851
• Email: [email protected]
• Fill in the contact form on this page
• Book a call back at your convenience

When someone suffers a dog bite, most people think of claiming compensation through the dog owner’s insurance. But what happens if the dog was used deliberately as a weapon? In such cases, a claim may be possible through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) a government-funded scheme designed to compensate innocent victims of violent crime.

At Claim for Dog Bite, we help clients explore all potential routes to compensation — including applications to the CICA — where the circumstances of the attack make a civil claim impossible or inappropriate.

What is the CICA?

The CICA is a government body that awards compensation to individuals who have suffered a criminal injury in England, Wales, or Scotland. The scheme covers a wide range of injuries, including psychological trauma, and extends to cases involving intentional attacks with a dog or where a dog has been used as a weapon in a criminal assault.

CICA claims are particularly relevant where:

• The dog was set on you deliberately
• You were attacked in the context of a violent or criminal act
• The police were involved, and the incident is classified as a criminal offence

When Is a Dog Bite Considered a Criminal Injury?

Not all dog bite cases will qualify for a CICA award. To be eligible, the incident must amount to a crime of violence as defined by the CICA scheme. This includes:

• A deliberate dog attack where the animal was used to cause harm
• An owner commanding or encouraging their dog to bite
• Dog-related assaults linked to threats, robbery, or abuse

If the injury was purely accidental, or if there was no criminal intent involved, a CICA claim is unlikely to succeed. In such cases, a civil claim against the owner or their insurer may be more appropriate.

CICA Claim Requirements

To bring a successful CICA claim, you must:

• Report the incident to the police as soon as possible
• Cooperate fully with the police investigation
• Submit your claim within two years of the incident
• Provide medical evidence of your injuries

The CICA awards compensation for physical injuries, mental trauma, and in some cases, loss of earnings or special expenses due to the attack.

Why Legal Help Matters

Although you can apply to the CICA without a solicitor, these claims are often rejected due to missing evidence, misclassification, or procedural errors. At Ison Harrison, we understand how to present a compelling case and ensure that your application includes the necessary documentation to support your claim.

We can also advise you whether the CICA is the right route or whether a civil claim is likely to yield a better result.

Contact Us Today

If you’ve been injured by a dog in what you believe was a criminal attack, speak to our team today. We offer free, no-obligation consultations and handle most CICA claims on a No Win, No Fee basis. Contact us today.

Let us help you take the next step towards justice and recovery.