A serious dog attack can cause deep lacerations, puncture wounds, crush injuries to bones and joints, nerve damage, permanent scarring, severe infections, and psychological trauma that lasts for years. Children are the most common victims, and they can be left with disfiguring scars and a fear of animals that follows them well into adulthood.

Texas follows a "one bite" rule, though the law is broader than that name makes it sound. The key question is whether the owner knew or should have known their dog was dangerous. If the dog has bitten before, shown aggressive behavior, or is a breed or size that requires heightened precautions, the owner is on notice, and once they're on notice, they have a duty to take reasonable steps to prevent an attack.

Texas also allows dog bite claims based on general negligence, did the owner violate a leash law, fail to secure their fence, let the dog run loose in a neighborhood where children play? San Antonio has specific animal control ordinances that require dogs to be restrained or confined, and a violation of those ordinances is evidence of negligence.

Every category of harm, medical expenses, future surgeries, pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, is compensable under Texas law. For a child who used to love playing outside and is now afraid to leave the house, that loss is real it has value.