When people hear the phrase “dog bite injury,” they usually think about bites from large, heavy breeds, like pit bulls, mastiffs and Dobermann Pinschers – not Shih Tzus or Chihuahuas.
While a small dog can’t inflict the kind of physical trauma that a large dog can, any dog bite is still a serious matter
Man’s Best Friend Has A Very Dirty Mouth
A dog’s teeth are designed to pierce and tear, so that means any dog bite can penetrate pretty deeply into someone’s skin and muscle. The deeper the wound, the more likely that bacteria will be transmitted – and dogs carry a lot of bacteria in their mouths.
Some of the most common infections caused by dog bites include:
- Staphylococcus: There are more than 30 kinds of staph infections that can lead to all kinds of problems, including sepsis – which is a deadly immunological response that can happen once the infection reaches someone’s bloodstream.
- Rabies: Although this is now rare in developed countries, rabies is still a concern with any dog bite if the dog hasn’t been properly inoculated. Victims may need to receive a series of painful shots to make sure they don’t contract the fatal disease.
- Tetanus: Tetanus can cause “lockjaw” and difficulty swallowing, and it’s a true emergency that requires antibiotics. The bacteria that will cause tetanus can easily enter the human body through a puncture wound.
- Capnocytophaga: This is another common type of bacteria that can be found in a dog’s mouth, and it can lead to joint pain, oozing wounds, fevers, vomiting and diarrhea.
No matter what size dog bit you, you need medical attention right away. That way, you can get the prophylactic treatment you need to prevent a serious injury.
If you’ve been bitten by another person’s dog, find out more about your legal options.
about
Scott M. Blumen
Scott M. Blumen, Attorney at Law, APC offers personalized, results-focused legal help for injury and workers’ compensation cases in San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started is easy. If you’ve been injured in a workplace accident, car accident, construction accident, slip and fall, or another incident caused by someone else’s negligence, contact Scott Blumen Law today. Call (619) 439-1837 to discuss your situation and receive an honest assessment of your legal options.
Since 1989, Scott Blumen has helped thousands of injured individuals throughout San Diego. He is known for providing honest legal advice, straightforward communication, and experienced representation in both workers’ compensation and personal injury law. As a Certified Legal Specialist in Workers’ Compensation Law, he offers knowledge that many firms cannot provide.
Many injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations without going to trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, Scott Blumen is prepared to advocate for your interests throughout the legal process and pursue the best possible outcome.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, future medical care, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related losses. Every case is unique, and the available compensation depends on the facts of your claim.
California law places deadlines on filing both personal injury and workers’ compensation claims. Missing these deadlines could affect your ability to recover compensation. Contact Scott Blumen as soon as possible after an accident to discuss the time limits that apply to your case.
Yes, in certain situations. While workers’ compensation covers most work-related injuries, you may also have a separate personal injury claim if a negligent third party contributed to your accident, such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or another driver. Scott Blumen has experience handling cases involving both types of claims.
Although you are not legally required to hire an attorney, having experienced legal representation can be extremely beneficial if your claim is delayed, denied, your benefits are disputed, or your injury is serious. Scott Blumen is a Certified Legal Specialist in California Workers’ Compensation Law and has over 30 years of experience helping injured workers.
Your health should always come first. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, report the accident if appropriate, gather photos and witness information when possible, and avoid discussing fault with insurance companies before speaking with an attorney. Prompt legal guidance can help protect your rights.
Scott Blumen represents clients in a variety of injury-related matters, including:
- Workers’ compensation claims
- Personal injury cases
- Car accidents
- Construction accidents
- Slip and fall injuries
- Dog bites and animal attacks
- Motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents
- Brain injuries
- Wrongful death cases
- Product liability claims
Most personal injury and workers’ compensation cases are handled on a contingency fee basis. This means you generally do not pay attorney fees unless compensation is recovered on your behalf. During your consultation, Scott Blumen can explain how fees apply to your specific case.
The value of a case depends on many factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, future treatment needs, and how the injury has affected your daily life. Scott Blumen provides straightforward, honest assessments rather than unrealistic promises so you know what to realistically expect.
If you were injured because of someone else’s negligence or suffered an injury while performing your job, you may have a valid legal claim. Every situation is different, so the best way to determine your options is through a consultation. Call Scott Blumen Law at (619) 439-1837 to discuss your case and receive an honest evaluation.
