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How to Tell if a Dog Bite is Infected

Sophia Soraya

September 24, 2024

Dog bites are an all-too-common issue that can bring more than just immediate pain and distress. One of the most significant concerns following a dog bite is the risk of infection, which can turn a minor injury into a serious health problem. It’s important to be able to recognize the telltale signs of infection. If you don’t know how to tell if a dog bite is infected, know that basically, you can determine if a dog bite is infected by inspecting the site of the bite.

If you find yourself dealing with a dog bite that seems to be infected, you need to take swift action. In addition to seeking medical attention, it’s also wise to consider legal options. A dog bite lawyer from Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C. can help you gather the necessary evidence to prove your injury and assist you in seeking rightful compensation from the dog owner.

Common Symptoms of a Dog Bite Infection

Dog bites are dangerous not only because of the immediate injury but also because of the risk of infection. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), dog bite wounds can lead to infections in 15 to 20 percent of dog bite cases. Victims need to be able to recognize the signs of an infection early to seek prompt medical treatment. Some common symptoms of a dog bite infection include:

  • Fever. A sudden rise in body temperature may indicate an infection as the body tries to fight off the invading bacteria.
  • Chills. Experiencing chills or shivering can accompany a fever and is often a sign of a systemic infection.
  • Red streaks. Red streaks radiating from the bite wound may indicate that the infection is spreading through the lymphatic system, requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Tenderness across the bite. If the area around the bite becomes increasingly tender or painful, it could be a sign of infection.
  • Swelling and warmth. Infected wounds often become swollen, and warm to the touch, and may even produce pus or other discharge.

How to Prevent a Dog Bite Infection?

Recognizing the symptoms is crucial, but it’s equally important to take steps to prevent an infection in the first place. This begins with proper wound care immediately after the bite occurs, as recommended by WebMD:

  • Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and water to remove as much bacteria as possible. Consider disinfecting the area with an antiseptic solution. Afterward, cover the wound with a sterile bandage.
  • After cleaning the wound, apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to prevent bacterial infection.
  • See a healthcare professional to assess the wound, provide a tetanus shot if necessary, and prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
  • Monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as increased redness or discharge. If such symptoms develop, seek medical attention immediately.

What Should I Do After a Dog Bite?

The strict liability rule in New Jersey holds the dog owner liable for the injuries caused by their dogs (N.J.S.A. 4:19-16). In such cases, you don’t have to prove negligence or a history of dog aggression to seek recovery.

However, you need to take the right steps immediately after a dog bite to minimize the risk of infection and lay the basis for legal action. Here’s what you should do:

Seek Medical Attention

Even if the injury seems minor, be sure to seek emergency medical care right away. Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the body, leading to infections or other complications.

A healthcare professional will clean the wound properly, administer necessary treatments like antibiotics or a tetanus shot, and evaluate whether you need further medical care, such as reconstructive surgery for deep tissue wounds or scarring.

Report the Bite

Contact the local health department to report the dog bite within 12 hours. According to N.J.S.A 26:4-82, if an animal is reported to the authorities following a dog bite incident, it can be quarantined within the owner’s home or an approved animal care facility. Reporting can also help document the incident, which is useful for future legal claims.

Document Your Injuries and Expenses

Keep a detailed record of your injuries and all related expenses. This includes medical bills, prescription costs, and any other out-of-pocket expenses associated with your recovery. Also, note the time missed from work due to the injury. Maintaining a log of your costs and the impact of the injury on your life will be critical if you pursue compensation.

Notify the Dog Owner’s Insurance Company

For dog bite cases in New Jersey, the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance policy may be responsible for the dog bite injuries. You need to file a claim with the owner’s insurance company, which can cover costs for medications and other damages. Be sure to provide all necessary documentation and details of the incident when contacting the insurance company.

Consider Legal Representation

Handling the legal ramifications of a dog bite can be challenging, particularly if the injuries are severe or if the dog’s owner disputes liability. Consult a dog bite attorney in New Jersey to help you understand your rights and work to secure proper legal recovery. Legal representation is especially important if negotiations with the insurance company are not successful and taking the case to court has become needful.

New Jersey Dog Bite Attorneys Ready to Help

If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite, it’s essential to understand your legal rights. In New Jersey, dog owners can be held liable for injuries their pets cause, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of the dog’s temperament. A New Jersey dog bite attorney will help you prove your case and hold the dog owner accountable for your injuries. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your recovery options.

Sophia Soraya

Sophia Soraya is a seasoned attorney specializing in complex civil matters, with a focus on personal injury, professional malpractice, and product liability cases across New York and New Jersey. Sophia is a Partner with the Firm and has been selected as a Super Lawyers, Rising Star for consecutive years.

University: J.D. New England Law (Boston)

Bar Number: 000402013

Locations: New Jersey and New York.

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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partners, Jeffrey W. Varcadipane & Dawn M. Pinnisi, with more than 40 years of combined legal experience as personal injury attorneys.

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