Dog Bite Lawyer in Napa County, CA
Dogs are supposed to be man’s best friend. However, sometimes they can become anxious and may bite their owners, other pets or strangers that make them feel threatened. Remember, dogs are territorial. They will protect their perceived property. Ironically, most dog bites happen to the dog owner or someone that they already know. Persons who have been bitten by a dog can also consult with a local Napa based dog bite lawyer to see if they have grounds for a dog bite lawsuit or not.
Filing any dog bite lawsuit can be an overwhelming task for most. It can help to speak with a professional lawyer, like those associated with Silverthorne Attorneys, to help sort out the confusing details. Not all dog bites are worth filing a legal claim. Some animal bites do not puncture the skin that protects the body from harmful pathogens. However, when the skin is broken, infection from various strains of bacteria and viruses may enter the body. This can cause severe infections, because animal saliva carries a greater number of germs.
There are many safety measures that all individuals should be aware of when they come upon a dog that is not familiar to them. Never make sudden or threatening moves. Give the dog time to determine whether you are safe or not. Never try to pet the dog until you get the ok from its owner. Dog attack attorneys handle court cases linked to unprovoked or accidental dog bites. Never allow your children to interact with dogs unless they are schooled in how to do so safely. Always supervise younger children around any dog even if it is your own. Most dog bites happen to young kids that are 10 years old and under. Some research indicates that this happens more often with male children.
One of the most critical things to determine, following a dog bite, is whether or not the bite wound is infected. This may not happen for hours or days after the adverse event. Watch for signs of swelling, redness, drainage or pain, that lasts longer than a day or so, at and near the wound site. Also look for increased fever, chills, nausea or vomiting and diarrhea. Difficulty moving the injured body part, blisters surrounding the injury and increased warmth along with joint pain or headaches could be signs of severe complications. Capnocytophaga infection can lead to heart attacks, sepsis, gangrene, kidney failure and sometimes death.
Other serious bite complications include tetanus and rabies among other issues. Any dog bite that causes the above telltale symptoms should be medically evaluated right away. In fact, it is a good idea to get any dog bite looked at, by a medical professional, just to be safe. You may need a tetanus booster or rabies treatment especially if the veterinary history of the dog is unknown. Dog bite victims may be eligible to receive legal compensation for their injuries and medical expenses. Contact a Napa located and experienced dog bite attorney, such as Silverthorne Attorneys, for more important information.
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