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Infection is a big risk after a dog bite

On Behalf of | Sep 14, 2020 | Animal Bites

Being attacked by a dog is traumatic, but it might not compare to what you’ll face during the upcoming days. Depending on the severity and location of the bite, there’s a chance that you’re going to need extensive medical care.

For this reason, it’s imperative that anyone who’s been bitten by a dog seek out medical care as soon as possible after the incident. Anyone who has a dog bite should see a doctor within eight hours of the bite to keep the risk of an infection to a minimum. Waiting longer than that could mean that you have an increased risk, especially if you’re immunocompromised or have diabetes.

One of the biggest risks that you’ll face when you’re bitten is an infection. A dog’s mouth is teeming with bacteria. When the canine bites you, the bacteria is forced beneath the skin’s surface, which provides a suitable environment for bacteria to flourish.

Some individuals who are bitten will need to receive antibiotics through an IV, which could require hospitalization. Washing the wound right away with soap and water for at least five minutes might help to reduce the amount of bacteria in the wound, but you still need medical attention.

If you’re bitten by a dog, you may end up with considerable medical bills and other financial damages. Seeking compensation from the dog’s owner may enable you to recover those damages so you aren’t left having to foot all the bills on your own. These claims are based on owner negligence, so your attorney can work to prove this point in your case.

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