Date: October 27, 2009
Location: Provo, UT
Type: Utah dog bite

An 11-year-old boy is recovering from injuries he received in a dog attack that occurred in Provo on Tuesday. According to the Daily Herald, Miles Graham was on his way to Provost Elementary School that morning when he passed a home around 1100 E. and 800 S. A dog jumped over the home’s privacy fence and attacked him. Miles punched and kicked the dog, but it continued to attack and bite him. Fortunately, the young boy was assisted by a Good Samaritan. Juan Riboldi was driving past in his car and saw the dog attacking Miles. He rushed out of his vehicle and chased the dog away. He helped Miles into the car and drove him home. Both Miles and his family are extremely grateful to Riboldi for his kindness and willingness to help.

Miles jeans were torn from the attack, and he suffered significant bit wounds to both of his calves. He had to receive several stitches in the emergency room. He said he tried to prevent the dog from biting his face, and Mr. Riboldi’s rescue likely spared him from more serious injuries. We wish Miles a quick recovery from his injuries.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4.7 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs each year. 800,000 of these victims suffer injuries serious enough to receive medical attention. Young children face even greater risk of serious injuries, as dogs can more easily reach a child’s neck and face. A dog bite to the face can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement, leaving the child with difficult physical and emotional obstacles. Many nonprofit organizations tailor to victims of facial scarring, helping them cope with the physical pain, as well as providing support and guidance for self-esteem and social issues. Angel Faces and About Face are two very helpful resources.

Attorney Kenneth Christensen, founder of the Christensen Law Firm, has authored “The Utah Dog Bite and Attack Handbook.” In this book, Mr. Christensen offers dog bite victims important information on how to best pursue their injury case. He also discusses the effects of dog attacks on children, and provides helpful resources for victims and their families. As a public service, this book is FREE to all Utah residents. To request your free copy, call us at 801.506.0800 or request a copy online.