Dogs are a beloved part of the family for millions of American households. They can be caring, loyal, friendly and loving animals. While this is the case for the most part, a significant minority of dogs do bite, and the results can be devastating.
Even though most dog bites are not life-threatening, they can be life-changing. Often, sufferers go on to have permanent scarring. Outlined below are some of the more common scar types associated with dog attacks.
Flat scars
Flat scars are one of the most common types. While these wounds may be swollen initially, they flatten out over time and do not protrude the skin. They typically turn a different shade from the skin, becoming either darker or lighter.
Raised scars
Raised scars, commonly referred to as keloid scars, do protrude from the surface of the skin. These scars can vary in size, but due to their nature, they are often much more noticeable than flat scars. In some cases, severe keloid scars can limit the movement of the affected area. Laser treatment can help to relieve the symptoms of these scars as well as make them less noticeable. In some cases, the victim may need surgery to regain some mobility.
The first thing you want to do after being bitten by a dog is to receive medical treatment. Not only could this potentially prevent the wound from becoming infected, but the sooner you receive treatment the less severe your scarring is likely to be.
Remember, you can hold a negligent dog owner to account by pursuing personal injury compensation. Make sure you have legal guidance on your side throughout this process.
