Long-Term Complications of Dog Bite Injuries

When a dog bites you, it has lasting implications. A pet you once loved may trigger debilitating anxiety, and some dog bite cases have even resulted in fatal illnesses and amputations. At DiBartolo Law, our dedicated dog bite injury attorneys understand the long-term complications often associated with dog attacks. Confidentially discuss your right to recover compensation for medical expenses and emotional pain by calling (215) 874-8553 or connecting online.

Rabies Risks from Dog Bites

Although New Jersey requires all dogs and cats to be vaccinated for rabies, many pet owners do not pay for or keep up with this requirement. Rabies is a potentially fatal virus that spreads if an infected dog bites you. In such cases, you must obtain immediate medical treatment to survive. This treatment often involves receiving rabies immune globulin (RIG) and at least four vaccines over 14 days.

There is no cure once symptoms develop, but rabies deaths are rare in the United States (fewer than 10 people died of rabies last year). Further, most fatal cases involve infected wild animals such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. This does not mean you won’t require treatment, however, which might result in significant emotional stress and side effects.

Infections and Complications

Dogs’ mouths contain a variety of bacteria, which may result in serious post-bite infections. The most common dog bite infections include:

• Capnocytophaga
• Staph
• Strep
• Cellulitis
• Pasteurella
• Tetanus
• Meningitis

If not properly cleaned and treated, these infections often result in severe secondary conditions, including bone infections (deep wounds), tendon infections, urinary tract infections (UTI), and blood infections (sepsis). Sepsis can be fatal, and many serious infections may require life-saving amputations.

Cosmetic Damage and Scarring

If you were bitten or mauled, especially in the face, you may require extensive cosmetic procedures. Health insurance companies significantly limit the coverage available for cosmetic restoration, but dog bite lawyers know how deeply these scars impact your mental health. Experienced personal injury attorneys might help you recover financial damages from the strictly liable dog owner’s property insurance company to cover full cosmetic restoration costs.

Post-Traumatic Stress and Anxiety Disorders

Did you know that nearly 45% of U.S. households own at least one dog? It’s impossible to avoid dogs in New Jersey, but many dog attack victims suffer from prolonged fear of dogs. This can impact your ability to enjoy the outdoors, visit friends, and live comfortably. If you develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety after a dog bite, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your emotional pain and treatment.

Discuss Possible Complications of Your Claim

If a seemingly minor dog bite incident resulted in significant long-term complications, you may need legal help to obtain the required financial damages. Confidentially discuss your personal injury rights with the experienced dog bite injury lawyers at DiBartolo Law in New Jersey today by calling (215) 874-8553 or contacting us online for free.