3 Psychological Injuries Young Dog Bite Victims may Suffer

With sharp teeth and long claws, dogs have the potential to inflict grievous harm on anyone. In fact, the American Veterinary Medical Association reports that roughly 20% of bite victims require emergency medical treatment. The AVMA further notes children are most likely to become victims of dog attacks.

Even if your child’s physical wounds heal, psychological injuries may last forever. Here are three common psychological injuries young bite victims may suffer in an attack.

1. Cynophobia

   Cynophobia, which is a clinical fear of dogs, may develop after a single attack. If your child has cynophobia, he or she may have dog-associated anxiety every time he or she is in a place where dogs tend to be. Going to the park, taking a walk, or even sitting on the porch may become virtually impossible for cynophobia sufferers.

2. Body dysmorphia

   Common among teenagers, body dysmorphia occurs when a child obsesses over imperfections on his or her body. If a dog attack leaves the young one in your family with facial scars or scars on other parts of the body, your son or daughter may develop body dysmorphia.

3. Post-traumatic stress disorder

   PTSD is a common consequence of traumatic experiences. If your child develops PTSD after a dog attack, he or she may experience nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, or depression. While medication and therapy may help your child cope with PTSD, it is unlikely ever to go away.

After a dog attack, your paramount concern must be your child’s physical well-being. Ultimately, though, because your child may have difficulty discussing psychological injuries, you also may need to connect him or her with a qualified mental health professional.