Common Dog Bite Injuries in Luzerne County

Many people believe dog bites result in only minor injuries, but that is a dangerous misconception. In Luzerne County and throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania, dog attacks frequently cause serious physical and emotional harm—especially to children and older adults. Pennsylvania law allows dog bite victims to seek compensation when an owner's negligence leads to injury.

Below are some of the most common and severe injuries we see in Luzerne County dog bite cases.

Puncture Wounds from Dog Bites

Puncture wounds are the most common injury caused by dog bites. These injuries occur when a dog's teeth break the skin, often penetrating deep into muscle tissue. Because a dog's mouth contains significant bacteria, puncture wounds carry a high risk of infection—even when there is little or no bleeding. Immediate medical treatment is critical to reduce the risk of complications.

Facial Scarring and Disfigurement

Dog bites can cause permanent facial scarring, particularly in children, who are often at eye level with dogs. Facial injuries are not only physically painful but can also lead to long-term emotional distress and self-esteem issues. In severe cases, victims may require reconstructive or plastic surgery, significantly increasing medical costs.

Nerve Damage from Dog Attacks

When a dog bites with significant force, the teeth can damage underlying nerves. Nerve injuries can lead to chronic pain, numbness, tingling, or permanent loss of function. These injuries may affect a victim's ability to work or perform daily activities long after the bite itself has healed.

Broken Bones Caused by Dog Bites

Dog attacks don't just involve bites. Victims are often knocked to the ground during an attack, leading to broken bones or fractures. In some cases, a dog's powerful jaw can fracture bones in the arms, hands, or legs during a bite.

Emotional and Psychological Injuries

Not all dog bite injuries are visible. Many victims suffer emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These injuries may cause nightmares, fear of leaving the house, or a lasting fear of dogs—especially in children who were previously comfortable around animals.