Daniel Carter | December 5, 2025 | Personal Injury
Dog bites can cause severe pain and emotional trauma. In rare cases, a dog bite can even result in catastrophic injuries and lasting disabilities. One of the biggest concerns following a dog bite is infection. Knowing what types of infections you are at risk for and seeking prompt treatment are the best ways to handle the aftermath of a bite.
With that in mind, there are three main types of infection you need to know about after a dog bite.
1. Rabies
Rabies is a virus. It is primarily spread through animal scratches or bites. Fortunately, dogs are required to be vaccinated for rabies in the United States. However, not all owners adhere to this requirement, meaning there is still a risk of contracting rabies from a dog bite.
It can take weeks or months for the rabies virus to incubate. Early symptoms can mimic the flu. Usually, severe disease symptoms appear within the first two weeks after milder symptoms emerge. The most well-known symptoms of rabies include biting, thrashing, having excessive saliva, and being extremely thirsty but experiencing panic from fluids.
2. Staphylococcal (Staph) Infection
Staph bacteria commonly live on human skin. When a dog bite breaks the surface of your skin, the bacteria can enter the wound and cause an infection. Some strains, such as MRSA, resist certain antibiotics, making them harder to treat.
Early staph infections typically appear as:
- Redness, warmth, or swelling
- Boils or abscesses
- Increased pain around the wound
- Possible fever
In severe cases, staph infections may spread through the bloodstream. This increases the risk of complications that may impact your recovery timeline. A doctor may need to drain your wound or prescribe antibiotics.
3. Capnocytophaga Infection
Capnocytophaga is a less common but potentially deadly infection associated with dog bites. Many dogs carry this bacterium, but it rarely harms healthy individuals. You may be more susceptible to Capnocytophaga if you have diabetes, a weakened immune system, or chronic health conditions.
Symptoms usually appear within 3-5 days after exposure. Signs and symptoms include:
- Blistering or swelling around the bite
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Headache or confusion
- Fever or muscle aches
Capnocytophaga can spread quickly and lead to sepsis or organ failure. Do not ignore these warning signs. Get treatment immediately.
Signs Of A Dog Bite Infection
Your dog bite may be infected if you notice any of the following:
- Increasing pain
- Red streaks spreading from the wound
- Warmth or swelling
- Fever, chills, or body aches
- Pus, discharge, or a foul odor
The sooner you get treated, the lower the risk of long-term or life-threatening complications.
Who Is Responsible For Your Dog Bite?
Typically, the dog’s owner is held responsible for the injuries their pet causes. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the dog bite, the property owner may be liable as well.
In certain situations, the person who gets bitten could be partially to blame. For example, if a person trespassed on a fenced property and was bitten by the owner’s dog, the trespasser could be liable.
How To Reduce Your Risk Of Infection After A Dog Bite
What you do in the hours following a dog bite could mean the difference between a smooth recovery and a nasty infection. You should contact animal control, clean the wound, and get medical treatment.
Many times, providers will proactively prescribe antibiotics to dog bite victims. If your provider prescribed antibiotics, make sure you follow the entire dose and follow up as directed.
Contact Carter Law Group For A Free Consultation With A Fresno Dog Bite Lawyer
If you or a loved one suffered a dog bite injury in Fresno, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The experienced Fresno dog bite lawyers at Carter Law Group can explain your rights, investigate your case, and help you pursue justice.
Call today to schedule your free consultation with a dog bite attorney at Carter Law Group.
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