Like many humans, animals not feeling well may wish to recover without socializing. According to the American Kennel Club, signs of an unwell dog may include limping, bleeding or labored breathing. Canines with red eyes or signs of confusion may have symptoms of a serious disease.
An illness or injury may not predict whether a dog will become aggressive. Keeping some distance may help prevent an unexpected attack. If an animal appears nervous or scared, staying away may avoid an unprovoked bite.
A dog may bite when not feeling well
Any dog breed could begin showing signs of aggression, whether sick or healthy. A nip may be a sign that an ill or a sore animal would prefer some quiet space to heal. The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that canines may bite when they feel threatened. If they encounter environmental stress, a dog could go on the attack to protect its home.
A well-behaved dog could bite when it loses its appetite, as explained by KidsHealth.org. Children aged 14 and younger experience the most canine bites requiring medical treatment. Ill and hungry canines may not have the physical ability to eat. Keeping kids away from a dog while it recovers could avoid a harmful bite.
A dog’s bite could cause serious illnesses
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that bites from infected animals may result in serious illnesses. Rabies may spread from an infected canine’s saliva to a human. Rabies symptoms such as paralysis or mental confusion may not appear for months. Canine saliva also contains Capnocytophaga, a class of bacteria that may cause symptoms including blisters, vomiting or kidney failure in humans.
To prevent bacterial or viral infections, humans may need emergency room treatment immediately after a dog bite. Harmed New Jersey residents may hold canine owners responsible for medical expenses including reconstructive surgery.