New Hampshire Dog Attacks Can Cause Post traumatic Stress Disorder in Children

When you hear about posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you often think of a war veteran or crime victim. You often don’t imagine a dog bite survivor.

Mayo Clinic defines PTSD as “a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event.” A pet attack typically falls into the category of a terrifying event.

A dog attack can be incredibly frightening, especially for children. A child who is bitten by a canine might not only lose trust in dogs, but could also develop a more serious anxiety disorder. If your child has been the victim of a dog bite, you need to watch out for the warning signs of PTSD, which include:
 

• Nightmares
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Anxiety
• Thumb sucking
• Bedwetting
• Sleep disturbances
• Irritability
• Easily startled
• Problems in school
• Detachment

Not every dog bite injury is visible to the naked eye.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your child following a dog attack, you need to seek medical care. An evaluation will be conducted to determine if your child is, in fact, suffering from PTSD. Once diagnosed, the medical professional might recommend treatment, such as therapy and/or medication.

A serious dog bite injury doesn’t have to be physical. It can be emotional, which is often far more damaging. If your child has suffered from a pet attack, you may be able to hold the animal’s owner liable for the injuries. It is important that you speak with an experienced New Hampshire dog bite attorney who can explain your legal rights.

For a free consultation regarding your dog bite injury case, contact the Law Office of Van Dorn & Curtiss at 877-611-9622. Van Dorn & Curtiss has been winning dog attack cases in Eastern Vermont and Western New Hampshire for years. 



Be sure to order a FREE copy of our book, Navigating the Minefield: The Essential Guide to Your Vermont or New Hampshire Accident Case.