• About
    • Our Attorneys
    • Verdicts and Settlements
    • Community
      • Sponsorship Request
      • Partnerships
      • Project Backpack
    • Testimonials
    • Scholarships
      • Cancer Scholarship
    • Careers
    • Our Core Values
  • Practice Areas
    • Car Accident
    • Truck Accident
    • Motorcycle Accident
    • Product Liability
    • Mesothelioma
    • Workers Compensation
    • Dog Bite
    • Slip and Fall
    • Wrongful Death
    • Maritime Injury
    • Pedestrian Accident
    • Dangerous Drugs
    • Defective Devices
    • Mass Torts
    • Premises Liability
    • View All Practice Areas
  • Areas we Serve
    • Lafayette
    • Alexandria
    • New Iberia
    • Marksville
    • New Orleans
    • Monroe
    • Arnaudville
    • Baton Rouge
    • Breaux Bridge
    • Broussard
    • Cankton
    • Carencro
    • Cecilia
    • Duson
    • Cade Coteau
    • Grand Coteau
    • Lake Charles
    • Opelousas
    • View All Areas We Serve
  • Resources
    • Blog
    • FAQs
    • Videos
    • For Referring Attorneys
  • Hurricanes
  • Contact Us
Available 24/7 • 365 Days (337) 777-7777 Hablamos Español
(337) 777-7777 Hablamos Español
No Win - No Fee AVAILABLE 24/7

What Diseases Are Caused by Dog Bites?

Put 350 Years of Experience in Your Corner GET A FREE CASE EVALUATION
Louisiana Proud
Attorney David Laborde | Attorney Digger Earles
  1. Home
  2. FAQs
  3. What Diseases Are Caused by Dog Bites?
On This Page
  1. Diseases Caused by Dog Bites
  2. Symptoms of an Infected Dog Bite
  3. Types of Bacteria Frequently Found in Dog Bite Wounds
  4. Further Medical Complications From Dog Bite Diseases
  5. A Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Can Help You
Contact Us Today

Get The Help
You Need

I NEED HELP NOW

Your personal injury lawyer can help you calculate your recoverable damages, which may include:

  • Medical Bills
  • Income Loss
  • Property Damage
  • Pain & Suffering
  • Emotional Distress
  • Lasting Disfigurement
What Diseases Are Caused by Dog Bites?

Diseases commonly caused by dog bites include cellulitis, meningitis, and rabies. Dogs’ mouths contain numerous strains of bacteria, many of which can complicate health after a dog bite.

If you were diagnosed with a disease caused by a dog bite, you can receive compensation for your medical bills and more. A Lafayette dog bite lawyer will build an evidence-based case on your behalf.

Diseases Caused by Dog Bites

Dog bites can lead to more than puncture wounds or bruising; they can also transmit serious diseases. When a dog bites, bacteria from its mouth can enter the body, potentially causing infections that range from mild to life-threatening.

Some of these diseases, like rabies or tetanus, can have severe consequences if not treated promptly. Others, such as Pasteurellosis or MRSA, may require antibiotics or medical intervention to prevent complications.

Cellulitis

A bacterial skin infection that occurs when bacteria from the dog’s mouth, such as Pasteurella or Staphylococcus, enter the skin through the bite wound. The area around the bite may become red, swollen, warm, and painful. In some cases, the infection can spread quickly and cause fever or chills.

If not treated right away, cellulitis can lead to serious complications. Doctors usually treat it with antibiotics, and in more severe cases, hospitalization may be needed. See a doctor as soon as possible after a dog bite to prevent or treat cellulitis early. Your Lafayette personal injury lawyer will collaborate with the medical staff to show the full financial impact of your injury.

Meningitis

A dog bite can cause meningitis if bacteria from the dog’s mouth enter the body and spread to the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and it can occur when bacteria travel through the bloodstream after a deep bite or if the wound becomes severely infected.

Certain bacteria, such as Capnocytophaga, found in dog saliva, can occasionally lead to this rare but potentially life-threatening condition. It is a medical emergency and needs immediate treatment with antibiotics. Seeing a doctor after a dog bite can help catch and treat infections before they become severe.

Rabies

Rabies is a deadly virus that can spread through the bite of an infected dog. The virus travels through the nerves to the brain, where it causes swelling and severe damage. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, and weakness. As the disease progresses, it can lead to confusion, seizures, paralysis, and death.

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, which is why it’s essential to seek medical help immediately after a dog bite, especially if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown. Doctors can administer a series of shots called post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent the virus from causing illness. Prompt treatment can save your life.

Tetanus

Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that can occur after a dog bite if the bacteria Clostridium tetani enter the body through the wound. Once inside the body, it produces a toxin that affects the nervous system, causing painful muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw, neck, and back.

Tetanus can also cause trouble breathing and, in severe cases, can be life-threatening. It is not spread from person to person. If you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the last 5 to 10 years, a doctor may recommend a booster shot after a dog bite to help prevent infection.

Pasteurellosis

Pasteurellosis is a bacterial infection caused by Pasteurella species, which are commonly found in dogs’ mouths. When a dog bites, these bacteria can enter the skin and soft tissue, leading to infection. Symptoms typically appear quickly and may include redness, swelling, pain, and the presence of pus around the bite area.

The infection can spread to deeper tissues, joints, or even the bloodstream, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Pasteurellosis is typically treated with antibiotics, and early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)

MRSA is a type of staph infection that is resistant to many common antibiotics. It can be found on the skin or in the mouths of both humans and animals, including dogs. If a dog bite breaks the skin, MRSA bacteria can enter the wound and cause an infection. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and the presence of pus at the bite site.

The infection can spread to the bloodstream, bones, or lungs, resulting in severe health complications. Because MRSA is harder to treat than regular infections, get medical attention right away if you suspect an infection after a dog bite. Medical documentation will strengthen your dog bite claim and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

CTA CTA

Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.

Client
Call Us Today We Are Here For You
(337) 777-7777

Symptoms of an Infected Dog Bite

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), infections develop in dog bites only 5% to 15% of the time. However, dogs are involved in the majority of the 5 million animal bites that occur in the United States each year.

Given their prevalence, all victims should take dog bites seriously to minimize further harm. This means addressing these wounds quickly and watching out for symptoms of infection, which may include:

  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Development of pus
  • Fever
  • Pain in the muscles or joints
  • Swollen lymph nodes

The risks of developing an infection after a dog bite will depend on several factors, including the dog’s vaccination history and your health. Those most at risk for infection from a dog bite include children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

Should you or a loved one suffer a dog bite, especially one that leads to infection, you could be eligible for compensation. After listening to your account of the incident, an attorney can tell you more about what to expect from a dog bite case.

CTA CTA

I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.

Rick Smith | Client
Contact Us Today We want to be there for you

Types of Bacteria Frequently Found in Dog Bite Wounds

To understand what diseases are caused by dog bites, consider the source: the bacteria that cause these diseases in the first place. The strain and species of bacteria present in a dog bite wound can influence the rate of infection development, as well as its symptoms and severity.

Pasteurella Pathogens

In a study of the microbiology of animal bite wound infections, researchers found that Pasteurella was present in half of the participants’ dog bite wounds. There are multiple species of this bacterium, with the most common in dogs being Pasteurella canis.

Infections caused by this bacterium can be serious, often affecting the central nervous system. Victims with infections involving Pasteurella also seem to present symptoms sooner than those infected by other bacteria.

Strep and Staph Bacteria

The same study, published in the Clinical Microbiology Reviews, found that Streptococcus and Staphylococcus were tied for the second most common bacteria found in dog bite wounds. 

These bacteria tend to inhabit the skin of both animals and humans. When a bite occurs, the puncture wound can introduce bacteria from the dog’s mouth and the victim’s own skin, potentially causing an infection.

Capnocytophaga

The bacteria Capnocytophaga can live in the mouths of many organisms, including dogs and humans. In dogs and other animals, this bacterium causes no harm. When it enters a human’s bloodstream through a bite, however, it can rapidly spread and cause fatal infections.

Capnocytophaga infections are relatively rare, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), though their effects can be severe. Some victims may even develop gangrene and require amputation due to complications.

CTA CTA

The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.

Client
Call Us - (337) 777-7777 We are here when you need us the most

Further Medical Complications From Dog Bite Diseases

Infections that develop after a dog bite can lead to further medical issues if left unaddressed. For example, like any untreated open wound, dog bites can cause sepsis and septic shock. The development of septic shock can quickly lead to organ or system failure.

Heart attacks, strokes, gangrene, and pneumonia are just a few of the complications related to dog bite infections. Monitor the affected area for signs of disease in the hours and days after a bite, as complications can develop quickly. Immediate medical intervention is often necessary.

CTA CTA

They treated us like no other people would. Whenever we needed something they were there for us. I put my trust in them and I don’t regret it.

Client
Contact Us Today We will work to get you the best outcome for your case

A Dog Bite Injury Lawyer Can Help You

While many dog bites occur in the victim’s own home, others may involve an animal belonging to another person and result from negligence. For example, if a neighbor or a stranger allowed their dog to roam without a leash, and the animal bit you, you could have grounds for a personal injury case.

The team at Laborde Earles will review your case and help recover your losses. Over the years, we have recovered more than $1 billion for clients, and we continue to win big cases.

We take pride in advocating for victims of dog bites and other injuries due to negligence. Our firm wants to be on your side, exploring your options for financial recovery and building a case to support your claims. Call today for a free initial consultation.

Why We Are

The Best Choice For You

Over 1,000+ 5-Star Google Reviews Across Our Locations
Over $1 Billion Recovered For Our Clients
An Award-Winning Team in Your Corner
You Get the Full Team on Your Case, Including David & Digger
Communication with You is a Top Priority
We Give Back to Our Communities

No Fee Unless We Win Your Case

Available 24 hours a day • 7 days a week
GET YOUR FREE CASE EVALUATION
Dog Bite FAQ:
How Long does It Take to Settle a Dog Bite Lawsuit?

  No two dog attack claims are the same. Therefore, it can be tricky or even impossible to answer the question of how long it takes to settle a dog bite lawsuit. However, in many cases, dog

What Are the Dog Bite Laws in Louisiana? What Are the Dog Bite Laws in Louisiana?

The dog bite laws in Louisiana allow bite victims to hold the animal’s owner responsible if there is a known history of aggressive behavior. The statutes also define what makes an animal

What Is the Average Settlement for a Dog Bite? What Is the Average Settlement for a Dog Bite?

  The average settlement for a dog bite is difficult to pin down, as many variables play a role. Not every dog bite occurs under the same circumstances, so the amount of compensation that a

Contact Us Form
CONTACT US TODAY NO WIN, NO FEE GUARANTEE
Name(Required)
Name(Required)
Untitled
Untitled

FAQ Categories
  • Accidents in Intersection
  • Bicycle Accident
  • Car Accidents
  • Defective Product
  • Dog Bite
  • Head Injury
  • Hurricane Damage
  • Jones Act
  • Knee Injury
  • Maritime Injury
  • Medical Malpractice
  • Mesothelioma
  • Motorcycle Accidents
  • Neck Injury
  • Pedestrian Accidents
  • Personal Injury
  • Premises Liability
  • Rear End Collisions
  • Rideshare Accidents
  • Robocalling
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Slip and Fall Injury
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Traumatic Brain Injury
  • Truck Accidents
  • Whiplash Injury
  • Workers' Compensation
  • Wrongful Death
  • Zantac

 

Frequently Asked Questions
What If My Motorcycle Accident Claim Was Denied By State Farm? What If My Motorcycle Accident Claim Was Denied By State Farm?
Do I Have to Go Back to Work After My Workers’ Compensation Ends? Do I Have to Go Back to Work After My Workers’ Compensation Ends?
What Percentage Do Accident Lawyers Take? What Percentage Do Accident Lawyers Take?
Find Yourself a Passionate Lawyer Now!
  • Breaux Bridge Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Duson Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Hammond Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Bunkie Personal Injury Lawyer
  • DeRidder Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Bossier City Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Monroe Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Carencro Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Texas Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Brownsville Personal Injury Lawyer
How can we help you

How We Can Help You

Let our injury attorneys help you maximize the compensation you deserve to turn your life back around.


Contact us today if you want to tell us about your accident. We have someone available to discuss your situation at all times of the day.

Contact Us

(337) 777-7777

FREE Case Evaluation

No Win - No Fee
Name(Required)
Name(Required)
Email Opt In
SMS Opt in

Contact Us

(337) 777-7777

OFFICE LOCATIONS

Lafayette
1901 Kaliste Saloom Rd,
Lafayette, LA 70508

Phone : (337) 777-7777

Alexandria
100 Versailles Blvd, Suite A,
Alexandria, LA 71303

Phone : (318) 777-7777

Marksville
306 North Washington Street, Suite A,
Marksville, LA 71351

Phone : (318) 310-8922

New Iberia
230 W. Main Street,
New Iberia, LA 70560

Phone : (337)-547-2777

Lake Charles
530 E College St,
Lake Charles, LA 70605

Phone : (337) 612-6909

New Orleans
821 Baronne St, Suite D,
New Orleans, LA 70113

Phone : (504) 777-7777

Baton Rouge
660 St Ferdinand St,
Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Phone : (225) 777-7777

Practice Areas

  • Bicycle Accident
  • Car Accident
  • Dangerous Drugs
  • Dog Bite
  • Maritime Injury
  • Mass Torts
  • Motorcycle Accident
  • Pedestrian Accident
  • Premises Liability
  • Product Liability
  • Toxic Torts
  • Truck Accident
  • Slip and Fall
  • Wrongful Death

About Links

  • Our Attorneys
  • Verdicts and Settlements
  • Community
  • Testimonials
  • Scholarships

Leave a Review

  • LAFAYETTE
  • ALEXANDRIA
  • MARKSVILLE
  • NEW ORLEANS
  • NEW IBERIA
  • LAKE CHARLES
  • BATON ROUGE

Copyright © Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers 2025.
All Rights Reserved.

Disclaimer / Privacy Policy / Sitemap

Hennessey-Digital-Badge