There is no denying that in the San Fernando Valley, we love our dogs. From dog-friendly businesses to outdoor dining areas, packed dog parks, and more, it is clear that we live in one animal-friendly city. Unfortunately, along with all the love and laughter a treasured pet brings, there can be some downside — in the form of aggressive, vicious dogs. And sometimes, these dogs bite people.
Maybe it was your child that was the innocent and unsuspecting victim of a brutal dog bite attack in the San Fernando Valley. According to the CDC, about 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs every year, with children accounting for half of this number. At least one in every five of those bitten require medical attention. If a child is involved, it is often more crucial to obtain medical treatment in order to ensure that the child is not at risk for long-term damage, whether it be emotional, physical, or mental.
If you’ve recently been bitten by a dog, you may be hesitant to obtain medical treatment. After all, it was just a scratch / the dog seemed healthy / you know the owners. But all that aside, there are some very real risks to not seeking medical treatment after suffering a dog bite. It is a sad truth that being attacked by a dog can scar a victim for life, both mentally and physically.
What are the risks of not treating a dog bite?
As it turns out, dog bites can actually cause quite severe damage. A dog’s teeth are rounded, which means that a wound from a dog bite may not look severe from the surface, but depending on the circumstances around the bite, extensive damage may have occurred to underlying tissue. Of course, there is always the issue of rabies and tetanus, so be sure to obtain the dog’s vet records to bring with you to your doctor.
If you or someone you love has suffered a dog bite, you may also be entitled to financial compensation. An experienced San Fernando Valley dog bite attorney can help you receive the compensation to which you are entitled. For more information, contact attorney Barry P. Goldberg today.
