Signs That a Dog Bite Injury May Be Worse Than You Think
Every year, approximately 4.5 million people get bitten by dogs, with nearly 800,000 requiring medical treatment. You may wonder whether the injury is serious if a dog has bitten you or a loved one. Some dog bites may seem minor at first but, later on, have severe complications if not treated. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, getting checked by a doctor is always a good idea. But if you haven’t yet seen a doctor, this guide will help you recognize signs that your dog bite may be more severe than you think.
Continuous and Heavy Bleeding
Minor dog bites may only cause surface scratches or small punctures with little to no bleeding. However, if your dog bite won’t stop bleeding, even when you apply direct pressure on it, this may be a sign of a serious injury. If you notice blood soaking through bandages quickly, seek medical attention immediately.
Deep Puncture Wounds
Each dog bite is unique, but if yours features deep puncture wounds and large, gaping cuts, you must not ignore it. Deep wounds that extend beyond the skin’s surface into the muscle or underlying tissues may be a sign of a serious dog bite, which puts you at risk of an infection or permanent damage.
Visible Tissue Damage
If a dog bite has caused underlying damage to muscles, tendons, or ligaments, the injury may be more severe than it might appear on the surface. Here are the signs to look out for:
- Exposed muscle, bone or tendons
- Large sections of torn skin
- Areas of crushed or mangled tissue
- Deep bruising around the wound
Sign of Infection
Unfortunately, signs of infection may only become apparent in the weeks following the dog attack. If you experience any of these signs, you should visit the ER or urgent care clinic as soon as possible.
- Redness: If the section around the bite becomes increasingly red or if red streaks appear spreading outward, the infection may be spreading.
- Swelling: While some swelling is normal, excessive swelling could indicate an infection.
- Warmth: If the bitten area feels warmer than the surrounding skin, it could be a sign of infection.
- Fever or chills: Developing a fever or chills after a bite may also suggest an infection.
- Difficulty moving: If you experience pain or stiffness in the affected limb or joint, an infection could be affecting deeper tissues.
- Pus or discharge: Any oozing from the wound, especially yellow or green pus, could be a sign of infection.
The Dog Is Not Vaccinated Against Rabies
One of the biggest concerns after a dog bite is the risk of rabies. Rabies can be fatal if left untreated. If the dog that bit you is unvaccinated, a stray or its vaccination history is unknown, you need to get a rabies vaccination immediately.
South Carolina’s Strict Liability Rule for Dog Bites
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in South Carolina, you have legal recourse. Dog bite cases in SC follow a strict liability rule, meaning a dog owner is automatically responsible for your injuries, even if their dog hasn’t shown signs of aggression before. An experienced South Carolina dog bite lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve, including any long-term treatment required.
Contact Attorney Gus Anastopoulo Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a dog bite in SC, contact our Charleston dog bite lawyer at Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
