What if I was working when the dog attacked me?

If the dog attack happened while you were working

If you were working when a dog attacked you, the incident may still count as a workplace injury. This can apply whether you were on your employer’s premises, visiting a customer, or working out in public. The key question is whether the attack happened in connection with your job.

Dog bites and attacks can cause serious physical injuries, as well as shock and anxiety. Even if the wounds seem minor at first, it is important to take the incident seriously. Some injuries can worsen later, and emotional effects may last much longer.

What to do straight away

Your first priority should be to get to safety and seek medical help if needed. If the bite broke the skin, cleaned and covered the wound as soon as possible and arrange medical advice. Some dog bites can become infected, so prompt treatment matters.

Report the incident to your manager or supervisor as soon as you can. Ask for it to be recorded in the accident book if your workplace has one. It is also sensible to keep notes of what happened while it is fresh in your memory.

Why reporting matters

Reporting the attack creates an official record of the incident. This can be important if you later need time off work, medical treatment, or want to make a claim. It also helps your employer understand whether there is a wider safety issue.

If the dog belonged to a customer, member of the public, or even a colleague, details should be recorded carefully. Try to note the date, time, location, and the dog owner’s details if known. Photographs of injuries and the scene can also be useful.

Your employer’s responsibilities

Employers in the UK have a duty to protect staff as far as reasonably possible. This may include risk assessments, training, clear procedures, and making sure employees know how to avoid dangerous situations. If your job involves visiting homes or dealing with the public, extra precautions may be needed.

If the attack was made worse by poor workplace safety, that could be relevant. For example, your employer may have failed to warn you about a known aggressive dog. They may also have sent you into a risky situation without proper support.

Getting advice about a claim

If you were injured at work by a dog, you may be entitled to make a personal injury claim. This may help cover pain, suffering, lost earnings, and other costs linked to the attack. Whether a claim is possible will depend on who was responsible and what happened.

It is usually sensible to get legal advice as soon as possible. A solicitor can explain your options and help you understand the evidence needed. In many cases, there are time limits, so it is best not to wait too long.

Looking after your health after the attack

Dog attacks can leave more than physical marks. You may feel frightened about returning to work or anxious around dogs in future. If this happens, speak to your GP or occupational health service if your employer has one.

Taking time to recover is important. Make sure you follow any medical advice, attend follow-up appointments, and keep your employer informed about your condition. Support at an early stage can make a big difference to both your recovery and your claim.