A dog bite can be more than just a painful injury. It can lead to serious infections if not properly treated. Many people don’t realize that even a minor bite can introduce harmful bacteria into the body, causing swelling, fever, and other complications. But what does an infected dog bite look like and when should you seek medical attention?
Recognizing the warning signs of an infection early is crucial for preventing severe health issues. In some cases, an infected dog bite can lead to hospitalization, long-term complications, or even life-threatening conditions. If the bite was caused by someone else’s dog, you may also have legal options to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Michigan dog bite attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the 7 warning signs of an infected dog bite, what to do if you suspect an infection, and your legal rights if a dog bite leads to complications.
How Do Dog Bites Get Infected? Understanding the Risks
Dog bites can easily become infected because a dog’s mouth contains millions of bacteria that can enter the body through broken skin. Even if a bite seems minor at first, bacteria can spread beneath the surface and cause painful and dangerous infections. Here’s why dog bites often lead to infections:
- Bacteria in a Dog’s Saliva – Dogs naturally carry bacteria like Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Capnocytophaga, which can cause infections when introduced into a wound.
- Deep Puncture Wounds – Dog teeth can create deep wounds, trapping bacteria under the skin and making it harder to clean.
- Delayed Medical Treatment – If a bite isn’t properly cleaned and treated right away, bacteria can multiply and cause an infection within 24 to 48 hours.
- Weakened Immune System – People with diabetes, cancer, or autoimmune conditions are at a higher risk of developing serious infections from dog bites.
What Does an Infected Dog Bite Look Like? 7 Warning Signs to Watch For
An infected dog bite doesn’t always look severe at first, but symptoms can worsen quickly if left untreated. Infections can spread to the skin, bloodstream, and even internal organs, leading to serious complications. Below is a quick reference table outlining the 7 key warning signs of an infected dog bite:
| ⚠️ Warning Sign | 📌 What It Means |
|---|---|
| 🔴 Redness and Swelling | The bite area becomes increasingly red, swollen, and tender, indicating inflammation. |
| 🟡 Pus or Oozing Discharge | Yellow or green fluid leaking from the wound is a sign of bacterial infection. |
| 💢 Increasing Pain | Pain that worsens over time instead of improving suggests infection is spreading. |
| 🔥 Warmth Around the Wound | The infected area may feel hot due to inflammation and increased blood flow. |
| 🤒 Fever and Chills | A fever over 100.4°F may indicate the infection is moving into the bloodstream. |
| 🦠 Swollen Lymph Nodes | Swelling in the neck, groin, or underarms suggests the immune system is fighting the infection. |
| 🚨 Red Streaks from the Bite | A serious sign that the infection is spreading through the bloodstream—seek medical help immediately. |
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately. Some infections can become life-threatening if untreated, so early medical intervention is crucial.
Common Infections Caused by Dog Bites
Dog bites can introduce harmful bacteria into the body, leading to serious infections if not treated properly. Here are the most common infections and their risks:
- Cellulitis – A skin infection caused by bacteria in a dog’s mouth. It leads to redness, swelling, warmth, and pain. If untreated, it can spread to deeper tissues and the bloodstream.
- Capnocytophaga Infection – A bacterial infection that can cause fever, chills, muscle pain, and sepsis, especially in people with weakened immune systems.
- Rabies – A deadly viral infection affecting the nervous system. Once symptoms appear, it’s almost always fatal, so immediate rabies shots are required.
- Tetanus – A bacterial infection that causes muscle stiffness, lockjaw, and spasms. If you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the last five years, you may need one after a dog bite.
- MRSA (Antibiotic-Resistant Staph Infection) – A dangerous infection that causes painful sores and can spread to the lungs, heart, and bones, making it difficult to treat with standard antibiotics.
If a dog bite becomes red, swollen, painful, or develops pus, seek medical attention immediately to prevent these infections from worsening.
When to Seek Medical Attention for a Dog Bite Infection
Not every dog bite requires a trip to the doctor, but if an infection develops, delaying treatment can lead to serious complications. You should seek immediate medical care if you notice any of the following:
- The wound is red, swollen, or warm to the touch.
- Pus or fluid is leaking from the bite.
- You develop a fever, chills, or body aches.
- The bite area is extremely painful and getting worse.
- Red streaks are spreading from the wound.
- Your lymph nodes are swollen, especially near the bite.
- You haven’t had a tetanus shot in the last five years.
If a dog bite has broken the skin, it’s always best to clean it immediately with soap and water and apply an antiseptic. Even if you don’t see signs of infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics as a precaution. For severe infections or bites from an unknown dog, go to the emergency room to rule out rabies or other serious complications.
How to Treat an Infected Dog Bite and Prevent Complications
An infected dog bite can become serious if not treated properly. Even small bites can lead to dangerous infections if bacteria enter the bloodstream. Taking the right steps immediately after a bite can help prevent complications and speed up healing. Here’s what you should do:
- Clean the Wound Immediately – Wash the bite thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least five minutes. Apply antiseptic to kill bacteria.
- Keep the Area Covered – Use a clean bandage to protect the wound from further contamination. Change it daily or whenever it becomes wet or dirty.
- Take Prescribed Antibiotics – If your doctor prescribes antibiotics, take the full course to prevent the infection from worsening or spreading.
- Monitor for Worsening Symptoms – If redness, pain, or swelling increases, or if you develop a fever, seek medical attention immediately.
- Get a Tetanus or Rabies Shot If Needed – If you’re unsure about your vaccinations, consult a doctor right away to determine if you need a tetanus booster or rabies shots.
- See a Doctor for Deep or Severe Bites – If the bite is deep, bleeding heavily, or near a joint or vital area, go to urgent care or the ER to prevent serious complications.
Following these steps can prevent serious infections and long-term damage while ensuring proper healing.
Can You Sue for an Infected Dog Bite? Understanding Your Legal Rights
If a dog bite leads to an infection, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Michigan has strict liability laws for dog bites, meaning the dog’s owner is responsible for your injuries in most cases, even if the dog had never bitten anyone before. To file a claim, you generally need to show that you were legally allowed to be where the bit happened (not trespassing), you did not provoke the dog, and the bite caused injuries that required medical treatment. An infected dog bite can lead to hefty medical bills, time off work, and long-term health complications. Victims may be able to recover damages, including the following:
| 💵 Type of Damage | 📌 What It Covers |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical Expenses | Hospital visits, antibiotics, wound care, surgery, or rabies shots. |
| 💰 Lost Wages | Income lost while recovering from the infection. |
| 😖 Pain and Suffering | Physical pain, emotional distress, and long-term trauma. |
| 🔗 Permanent Scarring or Disfigurement | Compensation for lasting damage from the bite or infection. |
| ⚠️ Disability or Reduced Earning Capacity | If the infection leads to long-term complications affecting your ability to work. |
| 🚨 Punitive Damages | In rare cases, extra compensation if the owner was grossly negligent (e.g., knowingly keeping a dangerous dog). |
How a Michigan Dog Bite Lawyer Can Help You Recover Compensation
Dealing with an infected dog bite can be overwhelming, especially when facing medical bills, lost wages, and long-term health complications. A Michigan dog bite lawyer can help ensure you get the full compensation you deserve by handling the legal process while you focus on recovery.
Many dog bite victims assume the dog owner’s insurance will cover their medical costs. Unfortunately, insurance companies often offer low settlements or deny claims altogether. A lawyer can gather medical records, prove liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and take your case to court if necessary to ensure you receive fair compensation.
If you or a loved one suffered an infected dog bite, don’t wait to take legal action. The Clark Law Office has helped countless injury victims recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infected Dog Bites
How long does it take for a dog bite infection to develop?
Most infections start showing symptoms within 24 to 48 hours after a dog bite. Redness, swelling, warmth, and pus are early warning signs. If left untreated, the infection can worsen and spread to other parts of the body.
Can a minor dog bite get infected?
Yes, even small puncture wounds can allow bacteria to enter the body and cause an infection. Cleaning the wound immediately and monitoring it for signs of infection is crucial.
What should I do if I think my dog bite is infected?
If you notice redness, swelling, increasing pain, pus, or a fever, seek medical attention as soon as possible. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics or additional treatment to prevent complications.
Can I get sick from a dog bite infection?
Yes, infections like cellulitis, Capnocytophaga, and MRSA can cause serious health issues, including sepsis. Rabies is also a rare but deadly concern if the dog was not vaccinated. Seeking medical care early can help prevent severe illness.
Will insurance cover my medical bills for an infected dog bite?
In many cases, the dog owner’s homeowner’s insurance may cover medical expenses, but insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A lawyer can help you pursue full compensation if the insurer offers a low settlement or denies your claim.
Can I sue for an infected dog bite in Michigan?
Yes, Michigan has strict liability laws, meaning the dog’s owner is usually responsible for any injuries caused by their pet. If your infection led to significant medical expenses, lost wages, or long-term complications, you may have a strong legal case.
Do I need a lawyer for a dog bite infection claim?
While you can file a claim on your own, insurance companies often try to settle for less than you deserve. A lawyer can help you build a strong case, negotiate with insurers, and take legal action if necessary.
Resources and References
- What Mistakes Should I Avoid Before Calling a Lansing Car Accident Lawyer? - January 2, 2026
- How Do Car Accident Lawyers in Lansing Prepare Cases for Trial? - January 1, 2026
- Do I Need a Car Accident Lawyer in Okemos for Minor Fender-Benders? - December 31, 2025
