Dog Bite Injuries and Medical Complications

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The dog’s mouth is filled with bacteria, many of which can cause infections or diseases if they enter broken skin. Scientists have identified over 130 disease-causing germs from dog and cat bite wounds.

Many injuries occur on the hands either because the victim reached out to the dog or tried to protect with her hands. Bites to the hands are potentially dangerous because the hand has many bones, tendons, and joints, and less blood circulation, which makes it harder for the body to fight infection in the hand. Hand infections may lead to severe complications, such as osteomyelitis or septic arthritis.

Other areas that are prone to dog bites, especially in small children, are the face, neck, or head. Injuries to these areas are very dangerous. Dogs have very strong jaws. Large dogs can exert more than 450 pounds of pressure per square inch—and their teeth are relatively dull. Dog bites can cause facial and skull fractures, and can lead to nervous system infections. Tissue that has been crushed is particularly susceptible to infection.

As a result of dog bites, there are many infections that can develop. The most significant are Pasteurellosis, Streptococcal and Staphylococcal Infections, and Capnocytophaga Infection.

If you have suffered a dog or other animal bite injury and need legal assistance and compensation for your injuries, contact Chicago lawyers Zneimer & Zneimer P.C. who have prosecuted numerous cases involving animal and dog bite injuries, for a FREE personal injury consultation either online or by calling 773-516-4100.