Most Common Dog Bite Injuries
Denver residents love their dogs. We live in an extremely dog-friendly state, and you can see dogs out and about all over the Denver area. There are countless dog parks throughout Denver’s neighborhoods, you frequently see dogs hiking on local trails, and dogs are regular guests on the outdoor patios at many Denver-area cafes, breweries and restaurants.
While most of the dogs you encounter are extremely friendly, loving pets, even the most well-behaved dogs can sometimes become aggressive if they are triggered. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that dog bites are extremely common. In fact, approximately 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year, and roughly 800,000 people require medical attention after a dog bite each year.
Dog bite injuries can range from minor cuts and scrapes to serious, life-altering injuries. Due to the risk of infection or the potential for rabies, it’s important to seek medical attention anytime you’re bitten by a dog. Below is a discussion of some of the most common dog bite injuries you might suffer in an attack.
Lacerations
Dog bites can result in serious lacerations requiring stitches and bandages, especially if the wound is deep or you’re unable to stop the bleeding. If you suffer facial lacerations from a dog bite, you may want to have them treated by a plastic surgeon to minimize the severity of scarring.
The most severe type of laceration from a dog bite is called an avulsion. This occurs when soft tissues are torn way during the bite, causing skin and muscle to hang in flaps. Avulsions will require reconstructive surgery.
Puncture Wounds
Dogs have sharp teeth and claws which can create deep puncture wounds during an attack. Puncture wounds are typically deeper than lacerations, and this increases the risk of infection. If you suffer a dog bite wound that punctures the skin, you should always seek medical attention right away to ensure the wound is properly cleaned. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
Infections
Dogs have over 600 different types of bacteria in their mouths. This large quantity of bacteria means that you face a significant risk of infection anytime you’re bitten by a dog. Some of the most serious types of infections associated with dog bites include:
- Capnocytophaga
- Rabies
- Tetanus
- Pasteurella
- MRSA
Prompt medical treatment after a dog bite is critical to prevent a serious infection from developing. Some of the most common symptoms associated with infection after a dog bite are fever, redness or pus at the wound site, and swelling. If you develop any of these symptoms after a dog bite, seek medical attention immediately. Without proper treatment, these infections can potentially become life-threatening.
Rabies
Most dogs in the Denver area are current on their rabies vaccine, so your risk of rabies after a dog bite is relatively low. However, it’s always important to confirm with a dog owner that their pet has been properly vaccinated. If you’re unable to confirm that the attacking dog is current on its rabies vaccination, you may need to get a rabies shot as a precaution.
Rabies is a deadly viral infection spread by the saliva of infected dogs during a bite attack. It attacks your central nervous system. Prompt treatment is essential since rabies can be fatal.
Sepsis
Sepsis is a potential complication that may occur if you suffer an infection after a dog bite. It occurs when your body responds too aggressively when fighting an infection, and it can result in significant damage to your organs. Sepsis is an extremely serious condition that can potentially be fatal if not treated promptly. Common symptoms of sepsis include:
- Shivering
- Sweating
- Shallow breathing
- Exacerbated symptoms from the source of the infection
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop these symptoms after an infection from a dog bite.
Bone Fractures
Dog bites to the face, hands and feet can result in serious bone fractures that require extensive surgery and treatment. If you’re bitten by a very large dog, the bite can potentially cause bones to become completely crushed or shattered. If this occurs, you may potentially suffer permanent mobility issues. This is most likely to occur if a smaller or more delicate bone in your wrist, ankle or hand is shattered.
Nerve Damage
If a dog bite is extremely deep, it can potentially result in severed or damaged nerves. Nerve damage can result in loss of function in the impacted area. You may also experience long-term symptoms such as pain, tingling, or a complete loss of sensation. Unfortunately, nerve damage is often irreversible and can result in a permanent issue that impacts you for the rest of your life.
Emotional Trauma
Often, you may suffer more than just physical injuries after a dog bite. It’s common to experience emotional trauma from the dog attack that can result in anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Minor Injuries After a Dog Bite
Fortunately, most dog bite injuries are relatively minor and may include:
- Bruises
- Scrapes
- Rashes
While these minor injuries usually heal completely, it’s still possible to develop complications. Therefore, you should always seek medical attention even if your dog bite injury seems relatively minor.
Scarring After Dog Bites
In many instances, lacerations and puncture wounds can result in significant scarring. It’s common for dog bite victims to suffer permanent facial scarring and other facial deformities that can result in additional emotional trauma and serve as a constant reminder of the attack. Reconstructive surgery is often required to minimize the severity of scarring after severe dog bite injuries.
Pushchak Law Can Help After a Dog Bite Attack
If you’ve been injured in a dog bite attack, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Colorado dog bite laws adhere to strict liability in dog bite cases. This means the dog’s owner is responsible for your damages even when they didn’t act negligently. At Pushchak Law, we’ll fight aggressively to help you recover the compensation you deserve after a dog bite attack.
Brian Pushchak has made dog bite cases a primary focus of his practice. He understands the devastation caused by a serious dog bite injury, and he can help you demonstrate the long-term impact these injuries will have on your life. This specialization and deep knowledge of dog bite injuries will give you the edge you need when seeking to maximize the value of your compensation.
When you work with Mr. Pushchak, you’ll benefit from his unique Informed Decisions™ Approach focused on helping you receive the best possible outcome to your case. With this approach, you remain in control of the process every step of the way. Mr. Pushchak will talk with you about your goals for the outcome of your case and review your legal rights and options with you in detail. You’ll have a chance to ask any questions you may have, ensuring you understand Mr. Pushchak’s recommended strategy for your case.
Ultimately, you will have the final say on how we handle your case. This process ensures Mr. Pushchak remains aligned with your best interests at all times.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Pushchak Law serves clients in Denver and the surrounding areas of Colorado.
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