How Risky Are Dog Bites

It is estimated that more than half of US households have dogs. Not only are they warm and cuddly, but they make great companions. Despite that, there are about 4.5 million dog bites reported every year. Unfortunately, dog bites can lead to some serious injuries and costly medical expenses.

Types Of Dog Bite Injuries

The most common types of injuries related to dog bites include:

• Scarring
• Puncture wounds
• Broken bones
• Tissue damage
• Nerve damage
• Head and neck injuries
• Psychological effects

Why Do Dogs Bite?

One may be surprised by why dogs bite, yet they are amiable animals. Unfortunately, not all dogs are friendly. And even those that are friendly can get aggressive when provoked. A dog can bite because it has been exposed to a stressful situation. Also, an injured or unwell dog can bite because it does not want to be disturbed.

Risks Involved With Dog Bites

Unfortunately, certain health risks accompany dog bites. The Centers for Disease Control Prevention reports that one in every five people bitten by a dog will need medical attention. Here are some infections that a dog bite can cause.

• Rabies: Rabies gets transmitted through an infected dog’s saliva. This is the most severe condition that one can get from a dog bite.
• Pasteurella: This is a common infection after a dog bite or scratch. If you have a weakened immune system, the infection can cause swollen glands and joints, making it hard to move.
• Tetanus: This type of infection is severe as it can lead to paralysis if a victim does not get medical attention.

The first thing to do after a dog bite is to get medical attention, then inquire about the dog’s health history. An animal that has not had all its immunization shots may be unhealthy, causing a severe infection. If it was a stray dog, the more reason to get medical attention is that you are unsure of the dog’s health condition.

Getting Legal Help

As mentioned earlier, many expenses accompany a dog bite. You should note that to get compensation for these damages caused, consult with a dog bite attorney. As long as you were not trespassing or attempting to provoke the dog, your attorney will work to ensure you get a fair settlement.

Whether you were bitten by your own dog or the neighbor’s dog, ensure you get medical care before anything else. If the dog belongs to someone who was not careful, then seek compensation for your injuries with the help of an attorney.