There is no such thing as a "safe" dog bite, as any wound or injury caused by an animal can lend itself to infection. So even if the attack was nothing more than a seemingly innocuous nip, you should take any dog bite injury to your child seriously and seek medical attention to ensure your child doesn't suffer unnecessary long-term effects.

While the nature of each dog bite attack varies and the seriousness of the injuries will depend on the dog's size and strength, their level of aggressiveness and your child's size, among other factors, there are certain commonalities that can be found with dog bite injuries.

Listed below are some of the most common types of dog bite injuries:

• Lacerations
• Puncture wounds; very susceptible to infection
• Tissue loss or significant tissue damage
• Risk of infection; rabies, capnocytophaga canimorsus (a bacterial infection) or cellulitis
• Broken bones or sprained muscles

Because of the way most dogs attack, dog bite injuries are particularly common to the face or neck. Both of these areas are especially vulnerable for anyone, but even more so on a small child who may be at eye-level with a dog or have limited means of defense. Any of these types of dog bite injuries can lead to permanent scars, disfigurement, disability or even death. 

If your child suffered serious or debilitating injuries in a dog bite attack in the Philadelphia area, you probably have a lot of questions about where to go from here. Visit our article library for details on what to do when a dog attacks your child. 

A Philadelphia injury lawyer at White & Williams LLP can work with you to ensure that your child's needs are met in a timely and compassionate manner. We will provide a free, no obligation consultation on your case and help you get back what you've lost - 1-877-944-8396.