Dog bites vary widely in severity, but even those that seem minor can develop into serious medical issues. Victims in Fresno often face injuries that require immediate care and, in many cases, long-term treatment. Here are some of the most common complications caused by dog attacks:
Puncture wounds and lacerations
A dog’s teeth act like sharp instruments, tearing into skin and deeper tissue. Even a quick bite can puncture muscles, tendons, and ligaments, leaving wounds that bleed heavily. These injuries often require stitches or surgical repair, and the risk of infection is significant if not cleaned properly. Victims may also experience limited mobility in the affected area while the wound heals.
Because a dog’s mouth contains a wide range of bacteria, bite wounds can become infected within hours if untreated. Rabies and tetanus remain major health concerns, but bacterial infections like staph can also cause severe illness. Once an infection spreads into the bloodstream, victims may need IV antibiotics or hospitalization. In Fresno,where reporting dog bites to animal control is standard, identifying vaccination records helps reduce some—but not all—of these risks.
Nerve damage and tissue loss
Deep or crushing bites can sever nerves or tear away muscle tissue. When this happens, victims often face numbness, chronic pain, or permanent loss of function in the hands, arms, or legs. Reconstructive surgery or physical therapy may be necessary to restore some mobility, but in severe cases, the damage is irreversible. These types of injuries can significantly affect a person’s ability to work or carry out daily activities.
Scarring and disfigurement
Scars are among the most visible reminders of a dog attack, especially when they appear on the face, arms, or legs. Children are particularly at risk because bites often occur near the head or neck. Reconstructive or plastic surgery may reduce the appearance of scars, but many victims live with permanent disfigurement. Beyond the physical changes, visible scars often cause lasting emotional distress and self-consciousness.
Broken bones and crush injuries
Large, powerful dogs can knock victims to the ground or clamp down hard enough to fracture bones. Wrists, forearms, and legs are common fracture sites, especially when a person raises their arms to shield themselves. These injuries may require casting, surgery, or long-term rehabilitation to heal properly. In some cases, broken bones lead to permanent weakness or chronic pain that limits physical activity.
Because of their size, children often suffer bites to the face, including the eyes, nose, and mouth. These injuries are especially dangerous since they can impair vision, breathing, and speech. Surgeries to repair torn eyelids, nasal passages, or lips are often complicated and may leave permanent damage. Beyond physical consequences, facial injuries carry a heavy emotional burden for victims of all ages.
A dog bite doesn’t end once the wound heals. Many victims develop a lasting fear of dogs or suffer from anxiety and nightmares. Children may refuse to play outside or approach animals again, while adults might avoid certain neighborhoods or jobs that involve exposure to dogs. In severe cases, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) requires counseling or therapy to help victims regain a sense of safety and control.
Dog bites are never “just surface wounds.” They can leave physical scars, disrupt everyday life, and create long-term financial and emotional burdens. If you or your child is recovering from any of these injuries, working with a Fresno dog bite injury attorney can help you pursue compensation for treatment, therapy, and future care.
