Types, Rates and Treatments of Dog Bite Wounds

According to the most recent research available, over 330,000 dog bites are treated in emergency rooms each year. In addition, approximately 17 fatalities from dog attacks are reported. Children are the most vulnerable victims and are attacked at a much higher rate than any other age group. In fact, 42% of dog bites occur among children under 14 years old. Children even younger, between five and nine years old, suffer the highest injury rate of all.

Types of Wounds
Data from the Center for Disease Control gives us a very good picture of who is being attacked that what the extent of their injuries are. This data shows that the most common injuries caused by dog bites are:

• Puncture wounds
• Laceration
• Contusion/abrasion/hematoma
• Infection
• Amputation/avulsion/crush
• Fracture/dislocation

This list deals only with physical wounds. In addition to these there is the chance that a dog bite victim may have a severe mental reaction to the event. If the victim is a young child the chance of a long lasting fear of dogs, fear of leaving the house and separation anxiety are even higher.

Location of Wounds
The majority of wounds inflicted by dogs affect the victims head, neck and face. By nature when a dog attacks it strikes these areas. Therefore they are common sites of dog bite wounds. Facial lacerations and fractures may require extensive reconstructive surgery.

The hands, fingers, forearm and wrist are also common sites for dog bites. These areas are more likely to be injured due to the victims attempt to defend themselves against attack. Lacerations, along with broken bones and puncture wounds are common in these areas.

Treatment of Wounds
Any wound has a chance of becoming infected. A bite from a dog carries a higher rate of infection than the average laceration. A puncture wound, in particular, can drive particles or harmful bacteria deep into the victim's body. In addition, it is difficult for a physician to fully clean a deep puncture wound, increasing the risk of infection.

If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, please seek medical treatment immediately. Even a small wound can be dangerous and only a doctor can properly assess the damage done and help the victim recover fully from the attack.

Have you been bitten or attacked by a dog?
If so, you may need an attorney to ensure that you receive enough compensation to cover the cost of your rehabilitation and medical treatments. Surgeries and physical therapy may be necessary far into the future and only a lawyer well versed in New Hampshire dog bite law can help ensure that your medical expenses will be taken care of.