Dog bites are life-altering, leaving victims with physical, emotional, and financial scars that may
take years to heal. While dogs are often cherished as “man’s best friend,” any dog—no matter
how familiar or gentle—can bite. Delivery workers for Amazon, FedEx, and UPS, as well as
children who may not fully understand the risks, are especially vulnerable. At least 45% of
homes in the United States have at least one dog and 4.5 million people been bitten by dogs per
year! And if that is not enough to make an impact on how life-altering a dog bite can be, Georgia
was one of the top ten states reporting dog bite claims in 2023.1
Physical Pain: A Traumatic Experience
Dog bites can cause injuries ranging from minor punctures to severe lacerations, nerve damage,
or infections. Victims may require stitches, reconstructive surgery, or long-term physical therapy
for full recovery. For delivery workers, constant exposure to unfamiliar dogs increases these
risks, as even a minor bite can lead to serious infections like tetanus or rabies if untreated.
Financial Pain: Hidden Costs
Medical expenses from dog bites, including emergency care, antibiotics, surgery, or therapy, can
quickly add up. Workers sidelined due to injuries often face lost wages or even long-term
disability, particularly when bites affect mobility or dexterity—critical for jobs in delivery
services.
Psychological Pain: The Lingering Fear
The emotional toll of a dog bite can last far beyond physical healing. Many victims, especially
children, develop long-term fear of dogs, anxiety, nightmares, or behavioral changes, requiring
counseling to overcome the trauma and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).2 Delivery
workers may experience heightened stress in their daily tasks, constantly on edge about potential
encounters with aggressive animals.
Seeking Legal Support
Dog bites are not only painful, and as we have seen, can also have lifelong impacts. By being
aware, practicing safety tips, and educating those around us, we can work to reduce the number
of dog bites and the trauma they leave behind.
If a dog bite has affected your life or the life of a loved one, contact Southside Injury Attorneys
for a case evaluation. Call today at 866-982-5295 or contact us here.
References
[1] AVMA. “Dog Bite Prevention.” American Veterinary Medical Association, https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/dog-bite-prevention. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.
[2] Westgarth, Carri et al. Review of Psychological Effects of Dog Bites in Children. BMJ Pediatrics Open vol. 8,1 e000922. 6 Jun.2024, https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjpo-2020-000922
