Emotional Wounds From A Dog Bite
We often talk about how dogs are man’s best friend. While many people have wonderful and friendly dogs as pets, it is no secret that many pups are not so well-behaved. If you are bitten or attacked by a dog, there are many levels of harmful aftermath that you may have to deal with.
Why do dogs bite?
To help avoid getting bitten or attacked by a dog, we need to understand why they bite. There are a wide array of reasons a dog may bite. On the less harmful end of the spectrum, puppies are known to nip and bite gently when they are teething. Dogs are known to bite aggressively when they are scared or feel threatened. They may also bite as a way to protect the owner of their puppies if they feel you may be a threat. Finally, dogs are known to bite when startled.
The Emotional Scars of a Dog Bite
While being attacked by a dog can obviously cause physical damage, the emotional wounds may take significantly longer to heal from. For one thing, it is very common to develop a fear of dogs after being involved in an attack. This is a hard fear to avoid, as dogs are a common part of our everyday lives and are hard to avoid. This can develop into a bigger fear of going outside or into public altogether.
When a dog attacks, they can often leave permanent damage and scars. This can lead to embarrassment and additional emotional trauma. Additionally, after the attack, it is common to find oneself reliving or replaying the attack. This can be a symptom of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and can require the help of a professional to overcome.
What do I do if a Dog Bites Me?
Immediately after a dog bite, it is important to tend to a wound. Immediately wash it out with soap and water, bandage it up, and then seek medical attention. If your wound is too big and cannot be cared for at home, go immediately to a hospital. Depending on whether the dog has up-to-date documentation, you may need a preventative rabies shot after a dog bite. After you have consulted a medical professional, report the bite to the police or your local chapter of animal control. They will make a record of the incident, which can be helpful if the dog has a history of attacking, or should they bite someone else in the future. If you are able, identify the dog’s owner, and try to get witness statements from anyone who watched the incident take place. And finally, after all of this is done, contact a legal professional to learn more about your rights.
Dogs bite for many reasons, and it is important to understand that a dog bite can come with emotional wounds as well as physical ones. If you do happen to get bitten by a dog, make sure you know the steps to take to protect your physical and emotional well-being.
