SHOULD YOU TAKE YOUR CHILD TO ER FOR DOG BITE/ATTACK?

Our lawyers frequently represent children in dog bite cases. Sadly, parents often second guess themselves about what they should have done. One question is whether you should take your child to the emergency room after a dog bite, or wait to seek other treatment with a pediatricion or with a plastic surgeon. The answer really depends on the situation.

Dog Bite Emergency Room - Attorneys MN — Dog Bite Emergency Room – Attorneys MN

For example, if you know the dog, and the injury is just a puncture wound, you may want to wait. Of course, that assumes you know the dog is current on its rabies vaccine. However, if you don’t know the dog, or it is more than a minor puncture wound, you should at least consider a trip to the urgent care.

RABIES SHOTS FOR CHILD DOG BITE

In most cases, the first issue is whether a child needs a rabies or tetanus shot after a dog bite. Usually, if you call the police, they will verify with the dog owner the rabies status of the dog. Unfortunately, if the dog’s rabies status cannot be verified, rabies shots for your child will probably be recommended. The rabies shots are expensive and painful. Our dog bite lawyers always include that in the case if applicable.

PLASTIC SURGEON FOR CHILD BIT BY DOG

Of course, many dog bite cases involve serious injuries to the child. Most frequent is the risk of disfiguring scars. If the dog bite looks like it might scar the child, we suggest going into the emergency room. However, if possible, insist on being seen by a plastic surgeon at the ER. A plastic surgeon will be more experienced with minimizing scarring than a general surgeon or other doctor. In other words, you will most likely get a better result with a plastic surgeon for your child’s dog bite.

LAWYERS FOR CHILD BIT BY DOG

If your child was bitten by a dog, call us for a free consultation. Our lawyers have over 25 years’ experience successfully handling dog bite cases accross Minnesota. First, we will help with the medical bills and insurance issues. Most importantly, our lawyers will make sure your child’s rights are protected and they get the compensation they are entitled to.