The Personal Injury Accident Lawyers at the Perazzo Law Firm understand that dog attacks are more common than most people think, and when they happen, the damage can be far more than skin deep.
Bites to the face, hands, or other visible areas often leave permanent scarring, disfigurement, and emotional trauma—especially when the injuries affect a person’s identity, ability to work, or quality of life.
From a medical standpoint, severe dog bites can require:
Emergency Debridement (Removal of Damaged Tissue)
Immediately following a dog attack, the wound may contain crushed skin, bacteria, saliva, and dirt. Emergency debridement is a critical first step where doctors surgically remove this damaged or infected tissue to prevent complications like necrosis, sepsis, or long-term infection. Without proper debridement, even a moderate bite can spiral into a life-threatening condition.
Multiple Rounds of Reconstructive or Plastic Surgery
Depending on the severity and location of the bite, victims—especially those bitten on the face, neck, or hands—often require several surgeries over months or years. Surgeons may attempt to rebuild torn skin, repair muscle damage, or restore facial symmetry, especially if the bite affected the nose, lips, or eyelids. These procedures aren’t just cosmetic—they’re essential for functional recovery and emotional healing.
Skin Grafts or Flap Procedures to Restore Function and Appearance
When the skin has been too severely damaged to heal on its own, skin grafts (transplanting healthy skin from another area of the body) or flap surgery (moving tissue along with its blood supply) are performed. These advanced techniques help restore movement, flexibility, and sensation, particularly when tendons, muscles, or nerves were exposed or destroyed. Without grafting, victims may be left with contractures, limited range of motion, or permanently open wounds.
Physical Therapy if Tendon or Nerve Damage Occurs
Many dog bites involve deep punctures or crushing injuries, especially to the hands and arms. This can lead to severed tendons, nerve injuries, or muscle loss—making it difficult to perform everyday tasks like writing, lifting, or even holding a toothbrush. Long-term physical therapy is often needed to retrain muscles, regain coordination, and reduce chronic pain. For some, it’s the difference between partial recovery and permanent disability.
Psychological Counseling to Address PTSD, Anxiety, or Fear of Dogs (Cynophobia)
The trauma of a dog attack doesn’t end at the emergency room doors. Victims—especially children—may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), develop an intense fear of dogs (cynophobia), or struggle with nightmares, flashbacks, or anxiety in public spaces. Counseling and therapy can help victims process the emotional shock, rebuild confidence, and prevent long-term mental health challenges. This is especially vital for those whose appearance has been altered or who feel socially isolated as a result of their injuries.
At The Perazzo Law Firm Accident Attorneys, we understand that the aftermath of a dog bite isn’t just medical—it’s deeply personal. Whether it’s physical rehabilitation, emotional recovery, or financial justice, we fight to ensure victims are never left to suffer in silence.
At The Perazzo Law Firm Accident Attorneys, we fight for dog bite victims to recover maximum compensation for both visible scars and invisible suffering. If you or a loved one has been bitten, especially on the face or hands, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Plastic surgery or reconstructive care
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
Your scars tell a story. We make sure they get heard.
Call us today at 888-PERAZZO for a FREE consultation.
