Yes, a dog bite can become infected, even if the wound initially appears minor. A dog’s mouth contains bacteria that can enter the skin through a bite or puncture wound, increasing the risk of infection. Without prompt medical treatment, an infected dog bite can lead to serious complications that may require antibiotics, surgery, or hospitalization.

If you’ve been bitten by a dog, understanding the signs of infection and seeking medical care as soon as possible can help prevent more severe health problems.

Why Do Dog Bites Become Infected?

Dog bites often puncture the skin, allowing bacteria to enter the underlying tissue. Because puncture wounds can be difficult to clean thoroughly, bacteria may become trapped beneath the surface and multiply.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of infection, including:

• Deep puncture wounds
• Bites to the hands, feet, or face
• Delayed medical treatment
• Weakened immune systems
• Crush injuries that damage the surrounding tissue

Even a seemingly small bite can become infected if bacteria enter the wound.

Signs a Dog Bite May Be Infected

An infection may develop within 24 to 72 hours after a bite, although symptoms sometimes appear later.

Common warning signs include:

• Increasing redness around the wound
• Swelling
• Warmth around the injury
• Pain that worsens instead of improving
• Pus or drainage
• Fever or chills
• Red streaks extending from the wound
• Swollen lymph nodes

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. An untreated infection can spread to nearby tissues or, in severe cases, enter the bloodstream.

Common Infections Caused by Dog Bites

Dog bites can introduce several types of bacteria into the body.

Some of the more common infections include:

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that causes redness, swelling, tenderness, and warmth around the bite. Without treatment, it can spread quickly and require intravenous antibiotics.

Pasteurella Infection

Pasteurella bacteria are commonly found in dogs’ mouths and can cause painful swelling within hours of a bite. This infection often requires antibiotic treatment.

Capnocytophaga Infection

Although uncommon, Capnocytophaga bacteria can cause severe infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems, liver disease, or those without a functioning spleen.

Tetanus

Although tetanus is less common, a healthcare provider may recommend a tetanus booster if your vaccination is not current.

What Should You Do After a Dog Bite?

Prompt care can reduce the risk of infection.

After a dog bite:

1. Wash the wound gently with soap and running water.
2. Apply pressure if the wound is bleeding.
3. Cover the injury with a clean bandage.
4. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially if the bite is deep, located on the hands or face, or continues bleeding.
5. Monitor the wound closely for signs of infection over the next few days.

A healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics, recommend a tetanus booster, or determine whether additional treatment is necessary.

Can an Infection Affect a Dog Bite Claim?

Medical records documenting an infection may help demonstrate the seriousness of a dog bite injury. Infections can lead to additional medical treatment, longer recovery times, increased medical expenses, and, in some cases, permanent complications such as scarring or reduced function.

Keeping records of your medical visits, prescriptions, photographs of the wound, and follow-up care can help document the full extent of your injuries.

When Should You Speak With a Dog Bite Attorney?

If a dog bite results in an infection or other serious complications, you may have questions about your legal options. An experienced Reno dog bite lawyer can review the circumstances surrounding the attack, explain your rights under Nevada law, and help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages when appropriate.