Sam & Ash Injury Law Discuss Holiday Dog Bite Safety on Local Living: What to Do If You’re Bitten This Season
With Thanksgiving, Christmas, and various other holiday gatherings just around the corner, dog bite incidents in Las Vegas and Southern Nevada are already starting to rise. This week on Local Living (KSNV News 3), Ash Watkins, co-founder of Sam & Ash Injury Law, sat down with host Bryan Thompson to break down why dog bites spike during the holidays, what injured people should do immediately after a bite, and why it’s okay — and often necessary — to file a claim even when the dog belongs to a long-time friend or family member.
Why Dog Bites Increase During the Holidays
Ash explained that holiday gatherings create a perfect storm for dog bite accidents. There are more people in tight or unfamiliar spaces, and children at eye-level interacting with dogs they don’t know very well, which can cause overstimulated pets to become stressed and reactive. Visitors coming and going frequently can also disrupt routines and cause higher, more panicked energy levels in pets. “People are in closer spaces, there’s more excitement, more kids around — and that’s when dog bites can spike,” Ash shared.
According to Clark County data, the region receives approximately 1,000 dog bite reports annually, which averages to around three per day. During holiday months, these numbers climb as dogs become overwhelmed or anxious around guests.
What To Do Immediately After a Dog Bite
Ash walked viewers through the four most important steps to take if you or your child is bitten:
- Get medical care quickly. Even minor punctures can become infected.
- Take photos of everything. The injury, the dog, the scene — anything that helps document what happened.
- Report the incident to animal control. This creates the official record that insurance companies often require.
- Call a dog bite attorney early.
“Details fade quickly, especially in holiday chaos,” Ash said. Getting legal guidance early helps protect your rights and preserve crucial evidence. These steps are essential for anyone searching “what to do after a dog bite in Las Vegas,” “Nevada dog bite laws,” or “how to file a dog bite claim.”
“What if the dog belongs to a friend or family member?”
This is the question Ash says she hears more than any other, and urges listeners not to worry. “It’s okay. Truly,” she told viewers.
Many people feel guilty or anxious about saying something — especially during the holidays. But Ash made it clear: dog bite claims are handled through homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, not out of the dog owner’s personal finances.
That means: You’re not suing your loved one. You’re using the insurance policy they already pay for. Your relationships stay protected, and you still receive compensation for medical bills, scarring, trauma, and long-term care. “We manage these cases carefully so friendships and family ties stay intact,” Ash emphasized. “This is exactly what insurance is designed for.”
Dog Bite Injury Cases: Sam & Ash’s Experience
Dogs can cause a wide range of injuries, including:
- Puncture wounds
- Severe lacerations
- Infection
- Broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Permanent scarring
Ash noted that children under 10 are at the highest risk, often suffering injuries to the face, arms, and hands because of their height. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, follow-up care, and sometimes long-term psychological support.
Ash shared an example of one of the firm’s many dog bite recoveries: A previous client required orthopedic surgery after a severe bite. Sam & Ash recovered $225,000 for them. The case involved sensitive family dynamics — but the firm handled it in a way that protected both the client’s recovery and their relationships. Sam & Ash Injury Law has handled numerous dog bite claims in Las Vegas, Henderson, Reno, and Southern California, including many involving friends’ or relatives’ pets.
Calling Early Makes a Huge Difference During the Holidays
Ash stressed that reaching out to an attorney early helps in three critical ways:
- Injuries can worsen if left untreated. Infections caused by dog bites can become serious very quickly.
- Evidence disappears fast — photos, witnesses, and reports are harder to track as the holidays get busier.
- Insurance companies look for reasons to deny or minimize claims.
“Calling us doesn’t create conflict — it actually takes pressure off the family,” Ash explained. “We handle everything quietly and professionally so everyone can enjoy the holidays while making sure the injured person gets what’s right.”
As the Local Living host wrapped up the segment, Ash had one final message for viewers: “If you or your child is bitten — even in a family setting — don’t feel guilty. Don’t be afraid to start the conversation. Let us handle it the right way. We’ll protect your relationships and your rights.”
For more information about dog bite claims in Las Vegas or to speak with Ash and the team directly, visit SamAndAshLaw.com or call 702-820-1234 anytime, 24/7.
