PHOTO GALLERY

MCBC NEWS & INFORMATION

Dog Bites and Attacks: What weall need to know and do.

Many of you know Dave Steffen was severely bitten by a dog on the way to a club ride on August 3, 2002. He received 30 stitches and acquired a lot of knowledge. The following are a few of the things he learned and would like to pass on for all to use in the future.

Definitions as stated in Article XVII an article regulating ANIMAL CONTROL.

Potential dangerous- Is an animal (dog) that approaches in a threatening manner
Vicious - Any dog that when unprovoked inflicts bites or attacks a human or other animals. ( One serious bite means the dog is considered vicious, this is most serious label given by the Animal Control)

The important things you need to know and do in the event of:
                                                     1. dog bite
                                                     2. dog attack, or chase
                                                     3. public nuisance ( dog coming out on road)

Naturally the first is to get medical assistance, if you have been bitten. Calling 911 will assure a police report ( the documentation could come in handy as a record if you go to court). Then, contact Animal Control 815 334-4470 and report:
                                                        *Type, color and size of dog.
                                                        *Address of attack
                                                        * Date and time of attack
                                                        and keep a record for yourself

Do this as soon as possible. Why is contacting Animal Control important? Because if no one reported the incident, the dogs will continue to have a " clean record". A citation will be issued to the owner. Two calls on the dog ( two citations) means the owner must go to court, of course you may have to go to court for the case, that is why the documentation is important- keep records!!

Also according to the Animal Control rules Dave received, the owner of the dog is responsible for the bitten person's medical bills, collecting those fees may be more difficult. Dave is still waiting for a check! But, it may have to go to small claims court, this is still in the works. We will keep you informed.

Again, we all need to call the Animal Control with any dog attack, dog chase, or threatening dog. The more reported incidents ( even on the same dog, on the same ride) then the Animal control will have to follow their rules and act accordingly.

It is also important that you follow through, make sure the Animal control has gotten the information correct ( two out of four incidents Dave turned in had major errors and needed to be corrected.

Dave and Connie Steffen