I Was Bitten by a Dog: Should I Be Concerned About Disease?

By Eugene Bruno on October 20, 2023

Dog bites are relatively common, and they come with potential health risks. Gaining a better understanding of the risks and steps to take if you’ve been bitten by a dog can be a significant tool in protecting your well-being and legal interests.

Health Risks Associated with Dog Bites

When a dog bite breaks the skin, it’s not just the immediate pain that is of concern. Dog bites can transmit various diseases, including rabies and bacterial infections. Understanding these risks is essential for your well-being.

Disease Transmission

Dog bites can introduce harmful pathogens into your body. These pathogens can lead to various infections and diseases. Among the diseases of concern are:

• Rabies: A dangerous viral disease that affects the nervous system. It’s rare in domestic dogs in the United States but can be fatal if not treated promptly. The virus spreads through saliva, and once symptoms show up, it’s too late for treatment. So, if you suspect rabies exposure, seek help immediately.
• Tetanus: A bacterial infection from soil, dust, and animal feces. Dog bites, especially puncture wounds, can introduce tetanus-causing bacteria. It causes muscle stiffness and spasms and can be life-threatening without treatment.
• Bacterial infections: Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into your body, causing infections. Common mouth bacteria like Staphylococcus and Streptococcus can lead to skin and tissue infections called cellulitis. In severe cases, untreated infections can even trigger life-threatening sepsis.

Immediate Steps To Take After a Dog Bite

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, it is crucial to take immediate action to mitigate health risks and ensure a smooth recovery process. To help achieve a full recovery, follow these steps:

• Seek medical help: No matter how small the bite seems, it’s crucial to see a doctor immediately. They’ll check the wound, give you the necessary treatments, and advise on how to care for it. Even minor bites can lead to infections, so don’t skip the doctor’s visit.
• Report the bite: Reporting dog bites is important for public safety. It helps track potential disease outbreaks and ensures proper measures are taken. Reporting also holds the dog owner accountable, especially if legal action is needed.
• Wound care: Gently clean the wound with soap and warm water. After cleaning, apply antibiotic ointment and then cover it with a clean bandage. Remember to change the bandage and reapply the ointment daily.
• Vaccinations and antibiotics: Depending on the bite and your vaccination history, you might need a tetanus shot or rabies vaccine. Tetanus shots are recommended every ten years, so if you’re due, your doctor will give you one. Rabies vaccines are necessary if the dog isn’t vaccinated or shows signs of rabies. Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.

Legal Considerations for Dog Bite Victims

In cases of dog bites, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and options. California Civil Code § 3342 holds dog owners liable for damages resulting from dog bites, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior. This means that as a victim, you have legal rights. If you’ve suffered injuries, medical expenses, or other damages due to a dog bite, the dog’s owner may be responsible for compensating you. Even if the dog had no history of aggression or biting, the owner is still generally liable for the harm caused by the dog.

If you’ve incurred medical expenses or other damage due to a dog bite, you may be eligible for compensation. This compensation can cover medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other related costs. It’s essential to document your injuries and keep records of all medical treatments and expenses related to the dog bite.

Addressing disease concerns after a dog bite is crucial to your health and any legal action. To navigate this complex situation effectively, it is imperative that you have the help of a skilled San Diego personal injury lawyer with experience in dog bite cases.

Contact a Top-Tier San Diego Dog Bite Attorney

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, our San Diego legal team specializes in dog bite cases and can provide you with the guidance and support you need. By taking the necessary medical and legal steps, you can protect your interests and ensure a smoother recovery process.

Remember, your health and well-being should be your top priority after a dog bite. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a San Diego dog bite attorney at at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) for a free consultation—we’re here to help you understand your rights and options in this challenging time.