In the United States, most states support strict liability statutes regarding bites from animals, especially dogs. Strict liability is the legal idea that a person has ownership over something; he is liable for the things it does, including damage or injury. This means, in this context, that a dog owner is responsible for the actions of his dog. In these cases, the victim almost always has a right to claim damages that resulted from the bite, regardless of the scenario. In effect, even a dog who was chained but bit a trespasser might be the owner's liability, depending on the judgment of a court. In other states, strict liability does not apply. Instead, these states often operate on a first bite condition. If the dog has not shown signs as a threat to others, and has never bitten a human before, the owner would then not be held liable. It is important to know the laws in your state, whether you are an animal owner or have been injured by one.