Report a Dog Bite

Dog bites can result in serious injury and may require medical attention. If you have been involved in a dog bite incident, please follow the steps below.

If You Have Been Bitten by a Dog

If the injury is serious or requires immediate medical assistance, call 911.

If it is safe to do so:

• Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
• Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
• Report the dog bite to:
  • Municipality of Brighton By-law Enforcement: 613-475-1162 ext. 135
  • Lakelands Public Health: 1-844-575-4567
• If possible, collect:
  • the dog owner's name and contact information;
  • a description of the dog;
  • the date, time and location of the incident; and
  • the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Take photographs of your injuries, if possible.

Investigation Process

The Municipality's By-law Enforcement Services investigates reported dog bite incidents and enforces the Animal Control By-law. During an investigation, a By-law Enforcement Officer may:

• interview the parties involved and any witnesses;
• collect evidence related to the incident;
• verify the dog's rabies vaccination status;
• determine whether an Order to Restrain or other enforcement action is appropriate; and
• work with Lakelands Public Health where required.

Emergency Situations

If a dog is actively attacking a person or poses an immediate threat to public safety, call 911 immediately.