Dog attacks happen throughout the nation regularly. Though scary, most do not result in serious physical injuries that then lead to lawsuits. When they do however, the aftereffects can be devastating. This is particularly true when it is a child who is involved, which it is, much of the time.

A 7-year-old Pennsylvania girl is currently recovering from injuries inflicted by a dog one evening earlier this week. The injuries reportedly stemmed from an attack that took place as the girl walked down the street with her grandfather. Not one, but two American bulldogs were involved in the attack in which at least one of them bit her.

Though the part of her body hurt and the extent of her injuries are not known, they were serious enough that they necessitated at least two surgeries. It is unclear how those surgeries went or if she will have lasting scars.

At this point there are no indications as to what caused the dogs to attack the child. Based on the information provided, it does not appear that the child was doing anything to provoke the animals. After the incident the dogs were transported to a local Humane Society to be checked for rabies. Currently, their future is unknown.

In situations such as this, personal injury lawsuits are sometimes filed against the owners of the animals. When the injuries are serious and children are involved it is especially important that financial damages be recovered if at all possible. This may be what is needed to take financial pressures off so that the recovery can be the sole focus.

Source: WHTM, "Police continue investigation of dog attack on girl, 7," Mark Hall, Aug. 29, 2012

• Children who have been bitten by dogs may face years of recovery. Our firm provides counsel in these types of matters. If you would like to learn more about our practice, please visit our Erie personal injury page.