Most people understand the short-term effects of a vicious dog attack, but very few consider the long-term effects. These can last weeks, months, or even the rest of the victim’s life. Dog bites, whether they occur from a family pet or unknown animal, have the potential to create serious long-term issues for the bitten. According to the CDC, there have been more than 27,000 people bitten by dogs who required reconstructive surgery, and there are 885,000 people bitten each year that require immediate medical attention.
Diseases And Infections
Some of the long-term effects of a dog attack include diseases and infections. If a dog bite is left untreated, the wound can become infected. Also, some dogs carry diseases – especially wild dogs that have not been cared for or vaccinated. A dog with rabies can pass their infection onto those that they bite, which, if left untreated, can be fatal.
When diseases and infections occur, they can lead to:
- Paralysis
- Disfigurement
- Amputation
- Permanent scars
- Mobility problems
Emotional Trauma
Dog bitesare extremely traumatic. These effects can be long-term and, for many victims, dog bites come with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD can stay with a person for the rest of their life. They may constantly fear being attacked again, and may even suffer from nightmares.
Those with severe emotional trauma can suffer from other issues, such as:
- Anxiety
- Loneliness
- Depression
- Self-harm
- Worry, fear, and anger
- Unusual behaviors
- Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
The long-term effects of a dog attack often require extensive treatments for the victim to recover or even learn to cope with their new condition. Just some additional costs that a victim may encounter because of their dog attack include:
- Physical therapy for physical deformities, mobility issues, etc.
- Psychotherapy to help a victim overcome their emotional effects, deal with anger, and cope with an altered appearance from their attack.
- Medication to help a victim cope with the emotional effects, as well as pain medications to cope with their long-term physical effects.
Some victims may see physicians and specialists several times a week, have multiple surgical procedures, and even visit specialty clinics frequently in order to recover from their dog attack – all of which will quickly add up and cost a victim thousands.
Speak With Dog Bite Lawyers Regarding Your Dog Bite Injury
If you or a loved one has been attacked by a dog, do not suffer through the long-term effects. Instead, speak with an attorney that will work as your advocate to hold the dog’s owner responsible and ensure you receive compensation for not just the immediate effects, but the long-term effects. Contact Hancock Injury Attorneys for your free case consultation at 813-534-6319, or contact us online with your questions.