Injuries caused by a dog bite can be quite severe. Some of these include physical scarring, nerve damage, and bone fractures. Some people will also experience death. In such cases, it is important to know the best way to care for your injuries.
While medical attention is the most important action to take after a dog bite, consulting with a dog bite lawyer will help you figure out what steps to take after. Your dog bite case may require legal attention and a lawyer can manage it for you.
Bone fractures
Dog bites can result in bone fractures. If you think your dog may have been bitten by a dog, you should visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. Depending on the type of fracture, the vet may recommend bone repair, setting the bone, or even amputation. The vet will need to take x-rays and give you medication to control pain. You will also need to keep the area warm and elevated.
The bones of the forearm and hand are frequently broken in dog bites. A dog’s bite can also cause a puncture wound. A puncture wound can also cause a fractured bone. The best way to avoid a dog bite is to keep your hands clean. Antibiotics and splinting are important for preventing infection.
Nerve damage
A dog bite can damage nerves and cause long-term consequences. It can cause the loss of sensation or even paralysis of the affected limb. The recovery process can take months or even years depending on the extent of the damage. It can also tear the skin on the face or body and leave a permanent scar. These scars can affect the self-esteem of a victim, particularly a young person.
The most severe type of nerve damage is called neurotmesis. It is often able to be repaired surgically but it is not always possible to regain full function. Nerve damage from a dog bite can cause physical and emotional trauma.
Physical scarring
A dog bite can cause physical scarring, which may last for years. Scarring from the dog attack is not only painful, but it can also affect the victim’s self-esteem and body image. It can also cause psychological problems, such as depression and low self-esteem. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with the psychological effects of a dog bite. In some cases, a doctor may recommend plastic surgery or psychological counseling.
The most important step after being bitten by a dog is to seek medical attention. Early treatment of wounds can reduce the risk of scarring and prevent secondary issues like infection. If you choose to pursue the treatment plan prescribed by a doctor, scarring may be minimal.
Death
Death from a dog bite can be devastating, with victims suffering serious lacerations and puncture wounds. They can also suffer from significant scarring and blood loss. In the worst cases, the victims may succumb to suffocation. Death from a dog bite can also result from severe injuries to the jugular vein, which runs in the neck under the earlobe. Jugular veins carry blood from the brain and lead to the heart. Unlike the carotid artery, the jugular vein is much larger and carries more blood.
Authorities believe that the dog that attacked Rochester was responsible for his death, although the owner has yet to be charged. The Kent County SPCA is pursuing criminal charges against the dog owner. The dog is now in the custody of the county she lives in.
Cost of treatment
In 2008, nearly half of the emergency department (ED) visits and hospital stays related to dog bites were covered by private insurance. A smaller proportion of patients were billed by Medicaid and uninsured patients accounted for 19.1 percent of visits and 12.6 percent of hospital stays. Medicare paid for 19.9 percent of ED visits and hospitalizations related to dog bites.
If you are unable to pay the full cost of dog bite treatment, you should ask your doctor about special payment plans that might be available. Most hospitals offer financial assistance programs for people who cannot afford their care and can’t afford the medical bills. You may also want to contact the owner of the dog and see if they have health insurance. Regardless, you should seek the advice of a dog bite lawyer to get the compensation you deserve.
