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The Law in Massachusetts regarding dog bites is very specific. In general owners/keepers of dogs are liable for any damages caused by their dog. There is an exception which protects the owner/keeper from liability if the injured person was committing a trespass or teasing or tormenting the dog when the injury occurred. In Massachusetts, it is presumed that a child under the age of 7 is not committing a trespass, teasing or tormenting the dog. The burden shifts to the defendant to prove that a child under 7 years of age was trespassing or teasing the dog when the injury happened.

Many young children are bitten on the face by dogs. Facial scarring, in particular, is a significant concern for young children. As a child grows, their facial structure will also grow elongating any scar. As a child continues to grow, the scar can become more distorted. Other types of injury that may result from a dog bit include emotional trauma or traumatic stress disorder. If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, you should do the following:

· Get immediate medical attention;

· Report the dog bite or attack to the city or town authority;

· Photograph the wound area;

· Write down the name, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses;

· Contact an attorney who has experience in handling dog bite cases.