Cascade Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

Victims of dog bites can trust dog bite injury lawyers for dependable support. These attorneys specialize in the complex legalities of animal incidents, ensuring proper management of liability and compensation to achieve justice.

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

Dog bites can lead to severe health issues, with approximately one in five bites requiring medical attention, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About 15 to 20 percent of dog bite wounds become infected, as noted in a 2001 report in the journal American Family Physician. It's crucial for dog bite victims to understand the potential infections and symptoms to seek timely treatment.

Common Types of Dog Bite Infections

The risk of infection from a dog bite depends on several factors, including the types of microbes present in the dog's saliva, the victim's skin, and the surrounding environment. Here are some common pathogens:

1. Capnocytophaga: Found in up to 41 percent of dogs' saliva, this pathogen can cause severe infections.
2. Rabies Virus: Responsible for 95 percent of human rabies cases worldwide, transmitted through dog bites, and often fatal if untreated.
3. Pasteurella Multocida and Pasteurella Canis: Common bacteria in dog bites that can cause skin infections.
4. Staphylococcus and Streptococcus Species: These bacteria can also lead to severe infections.

Risk Factors for Dog Bite Infections

Certain factors increase the risk of infection:

- Age and Health: Elderly individuals, children, and those with suppressed immune systems are at higher risk.
- Severity of the Wound: Deeper, more open wounds are more likely to become infected.
- Chronic Diseases: Conditions like cancer, heart disease, or a history of splenectomy increase susceptibility.
- Unknown Immunization Status of the Dog: Not knowing the dog's vaccination history can increase the risk.
- Poor Wound Care: Inadequate treatment of the bite can lead to infection.
- Edema and Alcohol Consumption: Both can increase the likelihood of infection.

Symptoms of Dog Bite Infections

Watch for these symptoms of infection following a dog bite:

- Swelling or redness around the wound
- Warmth around the bite area
- Yellow or white discharge from the wound
- Fever or chills
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Red streaks near the wound
- Achy muscles and headaches

Strict Liability in Iowa Dog Bite Cases

Iowa follows a strict liability rule for dog bites. This means that if a dog bites someone, the owner is liable for the injuries, provided the victim was not engaging in illegal activity at the time. Unlike states with a "first bite" rule, Iowa does not require proof that the dog had previously bitten someone or was dangerous.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim in Iowa

Victims of dog bites in Iowa may be eligible to file a claim for damages. These can include:

- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Emotional distress

Proving liability and securing compensation can be challenging, so it's advisable to consult an experienced dog bite attorney. Walker, Billingsley & Bair offer assistance in filing claims and provide a free consultation to discuss legal options.

Can a Dog Bite Cause Nerve Damage?

Dog bites can cause nerve damage due to the powerful jaws of the animal, which can injure nerves, tendons, muscles, and bones. The severity of nerve damage varies:

- Neuropraxia: The least serious type, involving stretched nerves without severance. Recovery can take from hours to months.
- Axonotmesis: More severe, with damage to nerves affecting muscle and motor function, requiring months to years for recovery.
- Neurotmesis: The most severe, with severed nerves. Some cases may be repairable, but many result in permanent damage.

Signs of Nerve Damage

Nerve damage from a dog bite can manifest in various ways:

- Motor Nerve Damage: Weakness, paralysis, twitching, and muscle wasting.
- Sensory Nerve Damage: Burning, numbness, pain, prickling or tingling sensations, and difficulty with positional awareness.

How Nerve Damage May Impact a Dog Bite Claim

Nerve damage can significantly affect the value of a dog bite claim. Claims may cover medical costs, lost earnings, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. Permanent scarring and disfigurement may also warrant compensation.

Dog Bite at a Dog Park: Liability Issues

Dog parks offer dogs a space to socialize off-leash, but bites can still occur, raising liability questions. In Iowa, dog owners are strictly liable for bites, even in parks. If the dog owner knew their dog had rabies and did nothing, they could be liable for resulting injuries. Additionally, park owners may be liable if they failed to address known dangers.

Recovery of Damages

Victims of dog bites can seek compensation for:

- Medical bills and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement

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.