Last Updated: 8/31/2023
When a person is bitten or attacked by a dog, the harm isn't always just to the body. Oftentimes it can result in psychological injuries that require medical care and treatment. This may be especially true if the dog bite wounds leave permanent scars or disfiguring injuries.
Types of Psychological Treatment Prescribed after a Dog Bite
Some victims may experience a lot of fear and anxiety after a dog bite injury. In addition, the victim may be dealing with embarrassment at the marks and scars left behind after the dog attack.
Treatment may include seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist. This can help the victim talk about the social implications of having a disfiguring injury and how to cope. Counseling can also help with addressing emotional injuries such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Sometimes medication to combat anxiety or depression may be prescribed.
These are costs that are in addition to the treatment required for physical injuries. Victims may be able to seek compensation to cover not only expenses related to physical or psychological treatment but for all damages that address the effects of a permanent disfiguring injury, such as emotional distress or pain and suffering. An Iowa attorney at Walker, Billingsley & Bair may be able to help.