Camanche Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

When a dog bite results in injury, dog bite injury lawyers become crucial allies for the affected individuals. These legal professionals navigate the complexities of liability and compensation with skill, ensuring justice and support for the victims.

A Brief Overview of Iowa Laws for the Rabies Vaccine for Dogs

In the early 1900s, rabies claimed over 100 lives annually in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). By the 1990s, that number had dropped to just one or two deaths per year, thanks in large part to widespread animal vaccination efforts. Ensuring pet owners vaccinate their animals is crucial in preventing human rabies infections, particularly following a dog bite. Iowa law is stringent about the rabies vaccine for dogs, making it essential for pet owners to be fully aware of the legal requirements and to comply with them. Failing to follow the rabies vaccination law is considered a simple misdemeanor offense in Iowa.

Iowa Rabies Vaccination Law

Iowa Annotated Statute § 351.33 mandates that dog owners must vaccinate their dogs. The statute states: “It shall be unlawful for any person to own or have a dog in the person's possession, six months of age or over, which has not been vaccinated against rabies.”

If an unvaccinated dog is found running at large, the local board of health or law enforcement can impound the animal. The owner has one week to retrieve the dog and provide proof of vaccination or to vaccinate the dog immediately. Failure to comply will result in the dog being euthanized.

Exemptions from the Rabies Vaccine for Dogs

There are specific exemptions to the rabies vaccination requirement in Iowa. These exemptions include:
- Dogs under six months of age.
- Dogs kept in a kennel and not allowed to run at large.
- Dogs in transit and under the owner’s control, remaining in Iowa for less than 30 days.
- Dogs exhibited in the state for less than 30 days.
- Dogs assigned to a research facility.

While these dogs may be legally exempt from vaccination, it is still advisable to keep all dogs current on their rabies vaccinations to prevent potential infections from wild, rabid animals.

Administering the Rabies Vaccination for Dogs

In Iowa, only licensed veterinarians can administer rabies vaccinations, and the vaccine must be approved by the state department of agriculture and land stewardship. Upon vaccination, the vet will issue a certification of vaccination, which the owner must keep as proof. Additionally, the vet will provide a rabies tag to be attached to the dog’s collar at all times. Rabies vaccinations are relatively inexpensive and widely available at veterinary offices and animal hospitals.

The 4 Stages of Rabies After a Dog Bite

Rabies is a potentially fatal virus affecting hundreds of people annually. If you've been bitten by a dog and contracted rabies, immediate medical attention is critical. Rabies is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans, and it attacks the central nervous system, leading to death if left untreated.

Rabies progresses through four stages:
1. Attachment: The virus attaches itself to a nerve cell.
2. Penetration: The virus penetrates the cell.
3. Replication: The virus multiplies rapidly within the cell.
4. Budding: The virus spreads to other neurons and travels throughout the body.

If bitten, clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical attention immediately. Proper treatment, if administered promptly, is highly effective in eradicating the virus. Failure to treat rabies can result in paralysis, coma, and eventually death.

Long-term Effects and Treatment for Dog Bites in Iowa

Dog attacks can have lasting physical and mental effects. Understanding these potential impacts and seeking appropriate treatment is crucial for victims of dog bites in Iowa.

Physical Disfigurement

Some dog bites result in permanent physical disfigurement, which may include:
- Permanent scars
- Paralysis or partial paralysis
- Mobility problems
- Amputation

Plastic or reconstructive surgery might be necessary for severe injuries, although conditions like paralysis may be irreversible, requiring lifelong adaptations.

Mental and Emotional Trauma

Dog attacks can cause significant mental and emotional trauma, particularly in children. Symptoms can include:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Acting out traumatic incidents
- Fear, stress, and anger
- Loneliness and aggression
- Self-harm or substance abuse

Therapy and counseling are vital for addressing these psychological injuries. Children attacked by dogs may develop attachment disorders, while adults commonly experience PTSD symptoms.

Infections and Disease

Dog bites can transmit infections and diseases, including rabies, which can be deadly if untreated. Other complications may include:
- Sepsis
- Loss of function
- Death

Prompt medical attention is essential to prevent and treat these complications.

Treatment for Dog Bite Injuries

Deep dog bites often require stitches or staples to close wounds. Treatment plans vary based on the injury's severity and location, with potential complications like infection, scarring, and damage to underlying structures. Following aftercare instructions, such as keeping the wound clean and using prescribed medications, is crucial for recovery.

Steps to Take After a Dog Attack

If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, take the following steps:
1. Seek medical attention immediately.
2. Report the attack to local authorities.
3. Collect information from the dog owner, including the dog's rabies vaccination status.
4. Contact a personal injury attorney in Iowa for legal advice and representation.

Legal Options and Compensation

Victims of dog attacks may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and pursue damages.

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.