Britt Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Dog bite injury lawyers become crucial allies for those injured by dogs. Their expertise in animal-related legal matters allows them to effectively handle liability and compensation complexities, securing justice and proper aid.

Common Types of Dog Bite Infections & Symptoms Iowa Victims Should Know

Dog bites are a common occurrence, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in five dog bites require medical attention. A 2001 report in the journal American Family Physician notes that approximately 15 to 20 percent of dog bite wounds become infected. If you or your child has been bitten by a dog, it’s important to understand the risk factors and symptoms of dog bite infections to seek early intervention and treatment.

Common Types of Dog Bite Infections

Dog bite infections can vary depending on several factors, including the types of microbial organisms present in the dog's saliva, the recipient’s skin, and the environment. Medscape highlights some of the most common pathogens found in dog bites:

- Capnocytophaga: Naturally found in up to 41 percent of dogs’ saliva, this germ can cause severe infections.
- Rabies Virus (Rhabdoviruses): Dogs are responsible for 95 percent of rabies transmissions to humans worldwide, and the infection is often fatal.
- Pasteurella Multocida and Pasteurella Canis: These bacteria are commonly associated with dog bites.
- Staphylococcus and Streptococcus spp.: These bacteria can also lead to infections following a dog bite.

Other infections might develop, so it’s crucial to always see a doctor after any animal bite.

Risk Factors for Dog Bite Infections

Certain individuals are more susceptible to infections than others. Those at higher risk include:

- People of advanced age
- Children
- Individuals with suppressed immune systems
- People with chronic diseases such as cancer or heart disease
- Individuals with a history of splenectomy (removal of the spleen)

Other risk factors include:

- Severity of the wound: Deeper and more open wounds have a greater risk of infection.
- Unknown status of the dog’s immunization records
- Susceptibility to edema (tendency to swell and retain water)
- Alcohol consumption
- Poor wound care

Symptoms of Dog Bite Infections

The signs of infections from dog bites are similar to other types of infections. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your physician immediately to schedule an appointment or seek emergency care:

- Swelling or redness around the wound
- The area becoming very warm to the touch
- Accumulation of yellow or white discharge
- Fever or chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Red streaks around the wound
- Achy muscles
- Headaches

Strict Liability for Dog Bites in Iowa

Iowa follows strict liability laws for dog bites, meaning that if a dog bites you and you were not doing something illegal, the dog owner is liable for your injuries. This includes injuries sustained while a dog is attacking you. Unlike some states with a "first bite" rule, Iowa does not require proof that the dog bit someone before or that it was a dangerous dog prior to biting you. In Iowa, dog owners are responsible for the actions of their dogs under almost every situation.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Iowa

If you or your child suffered a dog bite attack in Iowa, you might be eligible to file a claim to recover damages. Depending on the circumstances, you might be able to receive financial compensation for:

- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Attack-related emotional disorders
- Mental anguish

Proving the dog owner's responsibility can be challenging, but it’s possible with the help of an attorney experienced in Iowa dog bite laws. Contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair for assistance and a free legal consultation at 641-792-3595.

Challenges to a Dog Bite Claim and How to Address Them

Dog bite injuries can sometimes be more serious than initially perceived, potentially leading to deep lacerations, tendon damage, nerve damage, rabies, and even death. These injuries can result in substantial medical bills, time off work, and significant pain and suffering. If you’re pursuing a dog bite claim, be prepared for challenges from the dog owner. Here are some key considerations:

What Does the Law Say About Liability?

Iowa Code 351.28 states: “The owner of a dog shall be liable to an injured party for all damages done by the dog, when the dog is caught in the action of worrying, maiming, or killing a domestic animal, or the dog is attacking or attempting to bite a person, except when the party damaged is doing an unlawful act, directly contributing to the injury.” This means unless the dog bite victim was doing something unlawful, the dog owner is liable for the injuries. Defendants might argue that the plaintiff was doing something unlawful that contributed to the attack.

Were You Trespassing on the Dog Owner's Property?

Many dog owners believe they are not responsible if you were trespassing, but this may not be the case. If your trespassing did not contribute to the injury, the dog owner might still be liable for damages.

Was the Dog Provoked?

In some cases, the dog may have been provoked. For example, a teenager pulling a dog's tail or chasing the dog into a corner might be considered provocation. However, what constitutes provocation can be subjective. Consult an attorney about your case details.

Does the Dog Have Rabies?

Owners are generally not liable for bites if the dog had rabies and the owner did not know or reasonably could not have known. If you can prove the dog owner was negligent, they may still be liable.

Can I Use Harmful Force as Protection from a Dog Attack?

You may use harmful force against a dog posing an immediate threat to yourself or another person. The force used should be appropriate to the degree of threat. Lethal force may be considered appropriate if the dog is attacking. However, attacking a dog just because it is barking or growling is typically inappropriate, especially if the dog is restrained or confined.

When Use of Harmful Force is Inappropriate

Harmful force is inappropriate if the dog is no longer a threat, such as if it is fleeing. Revenge for a previous bite or attack is also inappropriate. Instead, report the incident to authorities.

When to Contact a Dog Bite Lawyer

For the complete list of things you should do if bitten by a dog you can request our FREE book, "Iowa Consumer's Guide to Dog Bites- Secrets to Not Get Bitten by Your Case" which is available to you with no risk or obligation by clicking here or by calling 641-792-3595. 

Why offer a Free Dog Bite Book?  Since 1997, I have been representing injured Iowans, including many dog bite victims from central Iowa and throughout the state.  I have heard too many horror stories about people making costly mistakes, causing them to lose thousands of dollars.  Before you talk to the insurance company you should know your rights and perhaps more importantly your responsibilities.   

If you need immediate assistance, contact us online or call us at (641) 792-3595. If you are not local to us, we will come to you.