Dog bites can be serious

Many Lakeland area residents own a dog. These dogs are not just pets, they’re members of the family for many people. Most of the time dogs are happy and well-socialized but occasionally a dog can be dangerous. If a person is bit by a dog, there can be many serious injuries and emotional trauma that occurs.

A dog bit can come out of nowhere. A friendly dog may turn vicious and bite the person petting them. Or an unleashed dog can attack an unsuspecting person walking by. Regardless of how the dog bite occurs, serious injuries can be a result.

• Puncture wounds. Puncture wounds can be deep and serious, even if they are not bleeding profusely. Because they are often deep into the skin, infection becomes an issue. Dog bites often involve their teeth and claws which are dirty. Dogs can be covered in bacteria, soil and waste which can be transferred to the wounds. Infections can get serious, especially in the very old and the very young.

• Facial scarring. Even when the dog bite injuries heal, there are some that can result in permanent scarring, especially on young children. Facial scarring or body scarring can change the quality of life for a dog bite victim.

• Rabies shots. If the dog has not had rabies shots or if its vaccination status is unknown, a dog bite victim will have to go through a painful series of rabies shots.

• Nerve damage. If a dog bites down hard it can damage the nerves in a victim’s face, arms, neck, or legs. This can lead to mobility issues and chronic pain.

• Emotional damage. Dog bites can be scary, especially for children. They can suffer from nightmares, a fear of dogs, a fear of going outside and other symptoms of trauma.

If a person has been bitten by a dog, they may want to speak with a legal professional who is skilled in personal injury. An attorney can review the circumstances surrounding the dog bite and help their client recover the compensation they are entitled to.