What Can Be Done After A Dog Bite?
Last updated on November 26, 2025
Immediately after a dog bite or animal attack, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Dog bites and animal attacks can be particularly dangerous because they can cause serious injuries, infections, and even death if the animal has a disease. At Keller, Woods & Thompson, P.A., we have helped countless Minnesota and western Wisconsin dog bite victims.
When visiting the doctor, it’s important to mention whether the person attacked has a suppressed immune system or health condition that puts them at a greater risk of infection. These conditions include diabetes, liver disease, and other autoimmune disorders.
Also mention whether or not you know the dog’s owner and if the dog is up to date on their shots. This will affect the type of antibiotic that the doctor will prescribe, and they may require a test for rabies.
Treating The Physical Injury
After visiting the doctor, you should continue to treat the injury at home by:
- Stop any bleeding by using clean, dry towels
- Keep the injury elevated
- Gently wash the bite with soap and warm water
- Keep the injury bandaged
- Apply antibiotic ointment daily to prevent or fight infection
Treating Emotional Trauma
Something else to keep an eye out for — especially if it was your child who was attacked — is whether or not the attack also caused emotional trauma. In children, these symptoms include:
- Crying
- Lack of sleep
- Nightmares
- Fear
- Anger
- Social withdrawal
- Bedwetting
- Clinginess to parents
It’s important to seek emotional therapy for your child if they experience emotional trauma after their dog bite because it can interfere with normal development.
Other Symptoms of Emotional Trauma:
- Intense fear of dogs
- Damage to self-esteem if scarring causes disfigurement
- Agoraphobia, where the person will avoid certain people or places to avoid anxiety
- Flashbacks, where the person feels like they’re reliving the event
- PTSD, where the trauma affects the person’s ability to function in daily life due to triggers
It’s important to understand that a dog bite or animal attack could affect the injured person emotionally as much as it affects them physically. Find a counselor who can help you or your child develop coping strategies to manage the emotional responses to the trauma and resulting triggers.
Navigating Insurance Claims After A Dog Bite In Minneapolis
Filing an insurance claim after a dog bite in Minneapolis can be complex without proper guidance. Usually, the dog owner’s homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy is responsible for covering injuries caused by their pet.
After a dog bite, the first step is to notify the insurance company as soon as possible, providing a clear account of the incident. This creates an official record of your claim and allows the insurer to begin their investigation.
Insurance companies like using specific tactics to minimize payouts in dog bite cases. Being aware of these tactics can help you respond effectively and protect your rights. Common strategies include:
- Disputing liability: The insurer may claim the dog was provoked, that you were partially at fault, or that the bite was minor and does not warrant compensation.
- Downplaying injuries: Adjusters may suggest your medical treatment is unnecessary, that your injuries are exaggerated or that your recovery is taking longer than usual.
- Delaying responses: Insurers sometimes stall or provide slow communication, hoping you will accept a lower settlement out of frustration.
- Offering early settlements: You may receive an initial offer that seems convenient but does not fully reflect the extent of your medical bills, lost income or long-term effects.
- Requesting unnecessary information: Companies may ask for extensive documentation beyond what is required to discourage claims or create confusion.
Thorough documentation is essential when navigating insurance claims after a dog bite in Minneapolis. Keep detailed records of all related damages, including:
- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, doctor visits, prescriptions and any rehabilitation therapy.
- Lost wages: Time away from work due to recovery or medical appointments.
- Pain and suffering: Emotional distress, scarring and limitations on daily activities.
In addition, photos of injuries, detailed medical reports, and witness statements can strengthen your case and make it harder for insurers to downplay your claim.
Even with proper documentation, negotiating with insurance companies can be challenging. Policies often include fine print and adjusters may pressure you to accept a settlement that does not fully cover your losses.
Working with an attorney experienced in dog bite claims helps ensure that your documentation is presented effectively, counters lowball offers and maximizes your compensation. With the right documentation and legal guidance, you can protect your rights and pursue full compensation for your injuries, medical costs and the broader impact on your life.
Talk To Us About Your Dog Bite Experience
If you or your child is experiencing emotional trauma due to a dog bite injury or animal attack, seek a personal injury lawyer for counsel. They may be able to recover damages related to the emotional injuries you or your child has sustained. Contact Keller, Woods & Thompson, P.A., today to schedule your consultation. Give us a call today at 763-447-4076 or send us an email to begin.