If you suffer a dog bite, one of your main concerns is likely that it could become infected. This could make the condition much more serious, and you may need to go to the hospital for emergency treatment.
One reason why dog bites have a high chance of infection is simply because the dog may have debris or bacteria in its mouth at the time of the attack. This increases the exposure to potentially harmful substances. It is not the same as suffering a laceration from a sterile surface. An infection can develop, especially if the wound is not properly treated or cleaned.
Puncture wounds
Additionally, many dog bites are not surface lacerations but puncture wounds. They extend deep below the skin. This means that the dog’s teeth can push the bacteria or debris far below the surface, where it may become trapped. It is much more difficult to clean a puncture wound than a surface cut.
Finally, many puncture wounds do not bleed as much as surface cuts because they tend to close on their own. This can make the injury seem like it is not that serious. But it is actually problematic because bleeding naturally cleans the wound. If the puncture wound does not bleed, it is just more likely not to get cleaned out in time, which could lead to infection.
If you do have an infected dog bite, you may be facing extensive medical costs, lost wages and much more. You could experience significant pain and suffering, along with long-term complications. Be sure you know how to seek financial compensation from the negligent dog owner.
