The Most Common Types of Dog Bite Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Dogs are often referred to as man's best friend, but sometimes our beloved pets can become dangerous. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 4.5 million dog bites occur in the United States each year, with nearly one in five bites resulting in serious injury or infection. At Pacific Injury Law Firm, we understand that dog bite injuries can be traumatic and life-altering experiences. In this article, we will discuss the most common types of dog bite injuries and provide tips on how to prevent them.

Puncture Wounds

Puncture wounds are one of the most common types of dog bite injuries. These deep, narrow wounds are caused by a dog's sharp teeth piercing the skin and underlying tissues. Puncture wounds can be particularly dangerous because they may not bleed excessively or appear very serious at first glance; however, they can introduce harmful bacteria deep into the body, increasing the risk of infection.

To prevent puncture wounds from a dog bite:

• Avoid approaching unfamiliar dogs or dogs that appear aggressive.
• Always ask permission before petting someone else's dog.
• Do not disturb a sleeping or eating dog.

If you do suffer a puncture wound from a dog bite:

• Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water.
• Apply an antibiotic ointment.
• Seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Lacerations

Lacerations are another common type of injury sustained during a dog attack. These jagged cuts or tears in the skin can result from a single tooth or multiple teeth ripping through soft tissue during an attack.

To reduce your risk of sustaining lacerations during an encounter with an aggressive canine:

• Stand still if approached by an unfamiliar or seemingly aggressive animal.
• Avoid direct eye contact with threatening dogs.
• If you are knocked down, curl into a ball with your hands over your ears to protect your face and neck.

If you do suffer lacerations from a dog bite:

• Apply pressure with a clean cloth to control bleeding.
• Clean the wound with soap and water.
• Seek medical attention promptly.

Crushing Injuries

Dogs have powerful jaws that can exert significant force when biting. This force can cause crushing injuries, particularly in the limbs or extremities where bones may be fractured or dislocated.

To prevent crushing injuries from dog bites:

• Be cautious around unfamiliar dogs, especially large breeds known for their strength.
• Avoid startling or cornering an animal that may feel threatened.

If you do suffer a crushing injury from a dog bite:

• Immobilize the affected area using a splint or other support.
• Apply ice to reduce swelling and pain.
• Seek medical attention immediately.

Infections

Infections are perhaps one of the most serious complications associated with dog bites. Bacteria from an animal's mouth can easily enter wounds caused by biting, leading to potentially life-threatening infections such as cellulitis, abscesses, or sepsis.

To prevent infection after being bitten by a dog:

• Clean the wound thoroughly using soap and water as soon as possible.
• Apply an antibiotic ointment to help fight off bacteria.
• Keep the wound clean and dry while it heals; change dressings regularly if necessary.

If signs of infection develop after sustaining a dog bite injury:

• Monitor for redness, swelling, warmth around the wound site, pus drainage, fever or chills