Dog bites, while often unintentional, can have far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate injury. Each year, approximately 4.5 million Americans experience dog bites, with children and the elderly being the most vulnerable.

While physical trauma is the most apparent concern, infections caused by bacteria or viruses introduced through a dog’s saliva are equally significant.

Left untreated, these infections can escalate, leading to severe health complications, prolonged recovery times, and even life-threatening conditions.

Understanding the potential risks, recognizing symptoms, and knowing how to respond effectively are crucial for both your health and legal rights.

This comprehensive guide covers the most common infections associated with dog bites, actionable steps to take after being bitten, prevention tips, and how a skilled dog bite attorney can assist you in obtaining compensation and justice.

Why Are Dog Bites Prone to Infections?

Dogs have an extensive microbial ecosystem in their mouths. A single bite punctures the skin, creating an entry point for harmful bacteria.

Even if the wound appears small or superficial, the puncture depth can create an anaerobic environment, which promotes bacterial growth.

Additional factors that increase the risk of infection include:

• Poor wound cleaning immediately after the bite.
• Deep puncture wounds, which are harder to disinfect.
• Delayed medical attention, allowing bacteria to multiply.
• Underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or immune system deficiencies, which impair healing.

Top Infections Caused by Dog Bites

1. Pasteurella: The Most Common Infection

• What is Pasteurella?
  Pasteurella is a bacterium commonly found in the mouths of dogs and cats. It’s responsible for over 50% of dog bite infections.
• Symptoms of Pasteurella Infection:
  • Redness, tenderness, and swelling at the bite site.
  • Increased pain over time.
  • Fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes in severe cases.
• Complications:
  Untreated Pasteurella infections can spread to deeper tissues, resulting in cellulitis or joint infections. Rapid treatment with antibiotics is essential to avoid long-term damage.

2. Capnocytophaga: A Rare but Dangerous Threat

• Overview:
  Found in the mouths of dogs, Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a bacterial strain that can cause severe infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
• Who Is at Risk?
  • People with immune suppression (e.g., cancer patients, transplant recipients).
  • The elderly.
  • Individuals without a spleen, who are particularly susceptible to bloodstream infections.
• Symptoms:
  • Blisters around the bite site.
  • Fever, fatigue, and muscle pain.
  • Advanced cases may lead to sepsis, which requires immediate hospitalization.

3. Rabies: The Deadliest Viral Infection

• Understanding Rabies:
  Rabies is a fatal viral infection that affects the central nervous system. It is transmitted through saliva, commonly from unvaccinated dogs or wild animals.
• Symptoms of Rabies:
  • Early: Fever, headache, and muscle weakness.
  • Advanced: Hallucinations, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, convulsions, and paralysis.
• Prevention:
  Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) treatment, administered promptly after a bite, is nearly 100% effective in preventing the onset of rabies.

4. Tetanus: A Rare but Severe Risk

• How It Occurs:
  Clostridium tetani, the bacterium responsible for tetanus, enters the body through deep wounds. While rare, dog bites can serve as a gateway for this infection.
• Symptoms:
  • Muscle stiffness, particularly in the jaw and neck (lockjaw).
  • Spasms and difficulty swallowing.
  • Breathing difficulties in advanced stages.
• Prevention:
  Ensure your tetanus vaccination is up to date. If you are unsure of your vaccination status, seek a booster shot after a dog bite.

5. MRSA: Antibiotic-Resistant Infections

• What is MRSA?
  Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a staph infection resistant to many antibiotics. Although not specific to dog bites, it can occur if the wound becomes infected.
• Symptoms:
  • Persistent redness, swelling, and pain at the bite site.
  • Pus-filled blisters or boils.
  • Fever and chills in advanced cases.
• Treatment Challenges:
  Due to its resistance to antibiotics, MRSA requires specialized treatment and careful monitoring.

What to Do After a Dog Bite

1. Immediate Steps

• Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water to remove as much bacteria as possible.
• Apply an antiseptic and cover the wound with a clean bandage.
• Seek medical attention, even for minor bites.

2. Medical Evaluation

A healthcare provider will assess the wound, determine the risk of infection, and may:

• Prescribe antibiotics.
• Administer a tetanus booster if needed.
• Begin rabies PEP if the dog is unvaccinated or unknown.

3. Documentation

Record the incident, including photos of the wound and details about the dog (owner information, vaccination status). This documentation is crucial for both medical and legal purposes.

Legal Support After a Dog Bite

Why Hire a Dog Bite Attorney?

A dog bite attorney can:

• Determine liability: Dog owners are often responsible for injuries caused by their pets.
• Secure compensation: This may include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and emotional suffering.
• Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance providers may offer insufficient settlements, but an attorney ensures fair compensation.
• Represent you in court: If negotiations fail, your attorney can advocate for your rights in court.

Key Considerations:

• Dog bite laws vary by state, including statutes of limitations and strict liability rules.
• Consulting an attorney promptly ensures you meet legal deadlines and strengthen your case.

How to Prevent Dog Bites and Infections

1. For Dog Owners:

• Train and socialize dogs to reduce aggressive behaviors.
• Keep vaccinations, especially rabies, up to date.
• Supervise dogs around unfamiliar people and children.

2. For the Public:

• Avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs, especially if they appear agitated.
• Teach children how to interact safely with pets (no pulling tails, no startling movements).
• Recognize warning signs of aggression, such as growling, stiff posture, or bared teeth.

Conclusion

Dog bite infections pose serious risks to victims, from minor bacterial issues to life-threatening conditions like rabies and sepsis. Taking immediate medical action, staying vigilant for symptoms, and understanding your legal rights are critical to ensuring your safety and recovery.

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, seek professional medical care immediately. Additionally, consult an experienced dog bite attorney to hold responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you deserve. With the right support, you can navigate both the medical and legal challenges effectively.