Dog Bites and Infection

Dog Bites and Hand Injuries: Insights from the Frontlines of Specialty Care at Katranji Hand Center

At Katranji Hand Center, we understand that even routine days can turn urgent in an instant—especially when it comes to dog bites. As a specialty clinic focused on hand and upper extremity conditions, we regularly treat patients whose seemingly minor wounds become serious without timely and proper care.

Recently, our clinical team took time to reflect on best practices, treatment protocols, and emerging trends in managing animal bite injuries, particularly those affecting the hand. Dog bites may seem minor at first glance, but due to the unique anatomy of the hand—including its tendons, joints, and complex network of nerves—even small punctures can lead to serious complications.

Key Takeaways from Our Review:

Study:

Stoclet T, Laudat A, Monti F, Luc F, Auquit-Auckbur I, Payen M. Epidemiology and management of dog bite injuries to the hand and upper limb. Ann Chir Plast Esthet. Published online May 14, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.anplas.2025.04.003

The Hidden Danger of Infection:
Roughly 10% to 20% of dog bites to the hand become infected. Unlike other body parts, hand injuries are more prone to deep-tissue infections, often involving aggressive bacteria such as Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Capnocytophaga canimorsus. Delayed treatment increases the risk of cellulitis, tenosynovitis, or even sepsis.

Functional Risk Beyond the Skin:
The force of a dog’s jaw can easily damage tendons, ligaments, or small bones. Our surgeons have seen cases where untreated bites led to long-term stiffness, reduced grip strength, and even permanent functional loss. Early evaluation and imaging (X-rays, ultrasound) are critical for ruling out deeper injuries.

Patient Education and Prevention:
We emphasize the importance of immediate cleaning, tetanus updates, and professional evaluation—even for small bites. If movement becomes painful or swelling increases after a bite, it's not "just a scratch." It’s a potential surgical issue.

Coordinated, Compassionate Care:
At Katranji Hand Center, we treat each case with a comprehensive, patient-centered approach. From wound assessment and antibiotics to surgical repair and follow-up therapy, our goal is to protect function, reduce complications, and get you back to full strength.

Looking Ahead:
Dog ownership is on the rise, and so are bite-related hand injuries. We’re committed to continuing education and community awareness campaigns to ensure patients know when and how to seek care.

Whether you're a pet owner, ER clinician, or simply someone who works with animals, knowing the risks—and the signs of something more serious—can make all the difference. At Katranji Hand Center, we’re not just here for surgery. We’re here to protect the hands that care, create, and connect.