Wisconsin residents must know that local laws have put quarantine requirements on animals who bite people. This goes for both cats and dogs. An understanding of how these laws work and how the quarantine must be carried out can help residents know what to do after an animal bite. Furthermore, knowing the local dog bite laws can help those who have been bitten know what rights they have, especially if the laws were not being followed at the time of the animal attack.
The basis of the law is designed around preventing the spread of rabies. If a dog bites a person, it has to be kept in quarantine for a full 10 days. During that time, the animal must be watched closely to see if the telltale sign of rabies are present. This law is also in effect for cats who bite people.
This law is important for victims because they may or may not have to get a rabies shot after being bitten. This shot can be expensive and having to arrange everything can be a hassle. If the animal ends up not having rabies, medical treatment to prevent infection may still be needed, but the cost of the shot is eliminated.
Of course, anyone who has been bitten, regardless of what the quarantine shows, needs to know if they have a right to financial from the animal’s owner. As mentioned, the costs can be high, and a person who was not at fault does not deserve to be subjected to these payments.
If a person neglects to follow the laws about the quarantine, they could have to pay a fine that is between $100 and $1,000, they could be sent to jail for 60 days or both.
Source: Wisconsin.gov, “What You Need to Know If Your Cat or Dog Bites Someone” Aug. 15, 2014
