Eldora Dog Bite Injury Attorneys

In cases of dog-related injuries, dog bite attorneys provide vital support to victims. Specializing in animal law, they navigate the complexities of liability and compensation to achieve justice and support for the injured.

The Prevalence and Impact of Dog Bites on Children

Children are the most frequent victims of dog bites in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the U.S., with about half of these incidents involving children. The age group most affected is between five and nine years old.

A dog bite is traumatic for anyone, but it can be especially terrifying for a child, given the dog’s relative size and the child's vulnerability. The aftermath of such an event can include severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and long-term psychological effects.

Physical Effects of a Dog Bite

Children's bodies are more susceptible to severe injuries from dog bites. Their skin is more delicate, and their bones are more prone to breaking. Some common injuries children sustain from dog bites include:

- Ripped Scalp: The force of a bite can tear the scalp, causing significant blood loss and potential long-term scarring.
- Torn Ears: Ears are often at the dog's eye level, making them a frequent target.
- Mouth and Eye Injuries: These areas can suffer severe damage, potentially affecting speech, vision, and overall facial structure.

Even when these injuries heal, they may leave behind long-term damage. For example, severed nerves can lead to weak facial muscles, resulting in a drooping appearance or impaired facial expressions. Scarring is another lasting physical effect, with deep wounds potentially causing disfiguring scars that may require reconstructive surgery. However, some scarring might remain despite multiple surgical interventions. As the child grows, other facial injuries involving skin and bones can cause disfigurement, affecting facial symmetry.

Emotional Consequences of a Dog Bite

While physical recovery is challenging, the emotional consequences of a dog bite can be equally, if not more, traumatic. Research reported by the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry indicates several long-term emotional reactions in children who have suffered dog bites, including:

- Separation Anxiety: Fear of being away from parents.
- Excessive Crying and Withdrawal: Emotional distress and reluctance to engage in normal activities.
- Disruptive Behavior and Sleep Problems: Issues such as nightmares and insomnia.
- Irrational Fears and Nightmares: Persistent fear of dogs or other triggers associated with the attack.
- Problems in School: Difficulty concentrating and performing academically.
- Medical Complaints: Frequent, unexplained physical complaints.
- Emotional Numbing and Depression: Reduced emotional responses and ongoing sadness.
- Flashbacks and Avoidance: Reliving the incident and avoiding places or situations that trigger memories of the attack.
- Lack of Trust: Difficulty trusting others, impacting social interactions and relationships.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Long-Term Effects of a Dog Bite

A significant risk for children bitten by dogs is developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD symptoms may not appear immediately but can emerge weeks or months after the incident. Symptoms include:

- Jumpiness and Anxiety: Increased startle response and ongoing anxiety.
- Frequent Bouts of Crying: Uncontrollable crying spells.
- Poor Performance in School: Decline in academic achievements.
- Lost Interest in Activities: Withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities.
- Concentration Problems and Nightmares: Difficulty focusing and recurring bad dreams.

The long-term effects of a dog bite can profoundly impact a child's self-esteem, confidence, and emotional growth, affecting their ability to participate in school and social activities.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim: Comprehensive Damages

Given the extensive physical and emotional damages, filing a dog bite claim in Eldora should encompass both physical and emotional losses, including:

- Emergency Room and Ambulance Costs: Immediate medical expenses following the attack.
- Long-Term Care: Costs for ongoing treatments, such as psychological counseling and home-schooling for children with PTSD.
- Follow-Up Surgeries: Expenses for reconstructive and other necessary surgeries.

Consulting a dog bite lawyer can help navigate the complexities of filing a claim and ensure all long-term damages are adequately covered. 

Can I Contract a Disease from a Dog Bite?

Yes, dog bites can transmit diseases, some of which can be life-threatening. It's crucial to be aware of the potential infections:

- Rabies: A fatal disease affecting the central nervous system. Symptoms include fever, headache, and muscle pain, progressing to brain inflammation, seizures, paralysis, and coma if untreated.
- Staph Infection: Staphylococcus bacteria can enter the body through the bite, causing severe pain, fever, and headaches.
- Pasteurella Infection: Caused by Pasteurella multocida bacteria, leading to pain, swelling, and joint infections.
- Tetanus: Affects the nervous system, causing muscle spasms and lockjaw. Tetanus shots are recommended if the last booster was more than ten years ago.

Filing a Dog Bite Claim for Disease

If bitten by a dog, seek immediate medical attention. For serious or fatal injuries, compensation claims can cover:

- Medical Costs: Treatment expenses for diseases contracted from the bite.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time off work.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional distress.

Harboring a Dangerous Dog: Special Rules for Vicious Dogs

A dog is declared dangerous/vicious by the city's animal control authority based on:

- Written complaints.
- Dog bite reports.
- Observations by law enforcement or animal control officers.
- Verified reports of previous dangerous behavior.
- Other substantial evidence.

Special License, Certificate & Requirements

Owners of declared dangerous dogs must obtain a special license and certificate within 30 days, meeting criteria such as:

- Keeping the dog within the property.
- Posting warning signs about the dog's nature.
- Obtaining a surety bond of at least $250,000.

Liability for Dog Bites in Eldora

Under strict liability, owners of dangerous dogs in Eldora are liable for bites or attacks, provided the victim was not engaging in illegal activities at the time. 

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.