Experienced Legal Counsel Practicing Throughout Minnesota

from offices in Brainerd, Buffalo, Hutchinson And Minnetonka

What treatment might someone receive after a dog bite?

On Behalf of | Jan 14, 2025 | Animal Bites

It is essential to get the right treatment quickly after a dog bite to help with healing and to avoid any serious complications. What treatment might someone need to heal?

8 forms of medical care for dog bites

When someone is bitten by a dog, the incident can lead to a range of injuries, from minor scratches to severe damage requiring immediate medical intervention. Some of the procedures and care someone might need include:

  • Stitches: If a dog bite is deep or has torn the skin, you might need stitches. Stitches help close the wound, make scarring less noticeable, and lower the chance of getting an infection by promoting quicker and more efficient healing.
  • Casts or splints: Dog bites can exert significant force, potentially leading to fractured or broken bones that require medical attention to ensure proper alignment and healing.
  • Rabies vaccination: Getting rabies from a dog bite is rare but it can happen. The need for a rabies vaccination will depend on the situation. These vaccinations may be necessary for people bitten by unvaccinated dogs, stray dogs or animals exhibiting abnormal behavior.
  • Antibiotics: Doctors might prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat infections, especially if the wound is deep or the risk of infection is high.
  • Pain management. People may experience significant pain in the aftermath of a dog bite. Doctors may prescribe pain relief medication to manage this discomfort.
  • Reconstructive surgery: In cases where the dog bite leads to significant tissue damage, you may need surgery. This type of surgery aims to restore function and appearance to the affected area.
  • Physical therapy: For bites that affect muscles, tendons or joints, physical therapy might be necessary to help regain strength and mobility.
  • Counseling: Dog bites can be traumatic experiences, especially for children who often develop phobias or symptoms of stress disorders after a bite. Psychological counseling might be helpful to address any fears or anxieties that arise after such incidents.

This care can add up quickly, especially for children or elderly people who may experience more severe injuries. In 2023, the average cost of claims related to dog bites was more than $58,000.

The medical treatment required after a dog bite can vary significantly based on the severity and nature of the injury. Treatments may range from basic wound care like stitches to more comprehensive interventions. Knowing what treatments might be needed can help you start to recover and avoid bigger problems later.

Archives

Categories