What Should You Do When Your Dog Bite Gets Seriously Infected?

What Should You Do When Your Dog Bite Gets Seriously Infected?

Getting bit by a dog can be a terrifying, shocking experience. In the moment, you might have been too scared to take action. But now, the bite is getting worse. It’s swollen, possibly infected, and you’re experiencing symptoms like fever or persistent pain. You’re terrified and unsure of what your options are.

It’s important to know that if a dog bit you, you have legal rights that can help cover your mounting medical bills and lost income. At SAM LAW OFFICE LLC, our lead attorney has successfully secured over $1.5 million for injury clients throughout Illinois, and knows what you’re facing. We’re here to share exactly what you should do to protect your health and right to compensation.

Why Are Dog Bite Infections So Dangerous?

Dog mouths harbor dangerous bacteria like staph and Pasteurella that can cause severe infections once they enter your bloodstream. These aren’t minor complications that can be ignored. They can lead to:

• Cellulitis: A spreading skin infection that can require hospitalization
• Sepsis: A life-threatening blood infection
• Nerve damage: Permanent loss of sensation or movement
• Scarring: Disfigurement that may need reconstructive surgery

The reality is that infections from dog bites require immediate medical attention. Waiting “to see if it gets better” can cost you your health and weaken any legal claim you might have.

Take These Steps Immediately

If you notice your dog bite is getting infected, follow these steps immediately:

Clean the wound thoroughly. Use soap and warm water, then apply an antiseptic. This is your first line of defense against bacteria.

Get medical care fast. If you notice swelling, redness, pus, or develop a fever, head to urgent care or the emergency room. Don’t wait until tomorrow.

Document everything with photos. Take pictures of the wound, any swelling, and visible signs of infection. These photos become crucial evidence later.

Gather the dog owner’s information. You’ll need their name, address, and proof that their dog has current rabies vaccinations. This protects your health and strengthens your legal position.

Report the incident. Contact local animal control to file an official report. This creates a paper trail that insurance companies take seriously.

Medical Treatment You Might Need

Doctors treating infected dog bites often prescribe antibiotics immediately. More serious infections may require:

• Professional wound cleaning or debridement
• Surgical drainage of infected areas
• Hospital stays for IV antibiotics
• Follow-up care to monitor healing

Following your doctor’s treatment plan isn’t just vital for your recovery; it also creates medical records that document the severity of your injuries. This documentation becomes the foundation of your legal claim.

Your Legal Rights in Illinois

Illinois operates under a strict liability law (510 ILCS 5/16) regarding dog bites. This means dog owners are responsible when their dog bites someone who was legally present and didn’t provoke the animal.

Importantly, infection-related complications are included in the damages you can recover. This covers:

• All medical bills from treating the infection
• Lost wages while you recover
• Pain and suffering from the extended recovery
• Future medical costs if you need ongoing treatment

Even if the bite happened at a friend’s house or a neighbor’s property, their homeowner’s insurance typically covers these incidents. You’re not asking them to pay out of pocket; you’re seeking fair compensation from their insurance company.

Our Dog Bite Lawyers Are Ready to Help You

Dealing with an infected dog bite is stressful enough without trying to handle insurance companies and legal procedures on your own. You need time to heal, not fight for fair compensation.

At SAM LAW OFFICE LLC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that serious dog bite infections take on victims and their families. Illinois law protects you, and our dog bite lawyers are here to make sure you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, and pain. Contact us today, and let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on getting better.