Staph Infection from a Dog Bite

Our dogs are sources of joy and love, but even healthy and happy dogs have a slew of bacteria that should not be transferred to humans. A dog bite is a perfect way to transfer bacteria from the unaffected host to their unsuspecting victim. Staph infections, which are often passed around in hospitals from an affected person, can be acquired from a dog bite, and that can be a danger to everyone’s health.

What is a Staph Infection?

Staphylococcus (sta-fill-oh-KAW-kuss) is a group of bacteria made up of many different species. The type most commonly found on humans is called Staphylococcus aureus (often shortened to S. aureus). These bacteria live on the skin and inside areas like the nose or throat in about one-third of people. Most of the time, they are harmless and are considered part of the body’s normal microbiome. They usually do not cause problems unless they enter the body through a cut, scrape, or other break in the skin.

When S. aureus gets inside the body, it can attach to cells and begin to multiply, sometimes leading to infections. These infections can range from mild skin issues like pimples or boils to more serious conditions such as wound infections, pneumonia, or even bloodstream infections. The severity often depends on where the bacteria spread and the strength of a person’s immune system.

In some cases, S. aureus has developed resistance to commonly used antibiotics. One well-known example is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). MRSA is harder to treat because it does not respond to many standard antibiotics, making infections more persistent and complicated. This has become a growing concern in hospitals and communities because it can spread more easily and lead to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and in severe cases, death.

How Can a Dog Bite Cause a Staph Infection?

Staph bacteria found on dogs are different from the S. aureus commonly found on humans. In dogs, the main species is called Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (sood-enter-mee-dee-uss). This bacterium normally lives on a dog’s skin and in areas like the nostrils and saliva. Studies show that roughly 22% to 69% of dogs carry S. pseudintermedius. Like other staph bacteria, it usually does not cause harm while it stays on the surface of the body and is considered part of the dog’s normal microbiome.

Problems can occur when the bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin. In dogs, this may lead to skin infections such as hotspots or wounds that do not heal properly. When it comes to humans, transmission can happen through close contact, especially through dog bites that puncture or break the skin. This allows S. pseudintermedius to enter the human body, where it can attach to cells and begin to multiply.

Although infections in humans are less common than those caused by S. aureus, they can still be serious. In some cases, they may lead to skin infections, deeper tissue infections, or complications if not treated properly. Because of this, it is important to clean and monitor any dog bite carefully and seek medical attention if signs of infection appear, such as redness, swelling, pain, or discharge.

Unfortunately, staph infections from dog bites are often mislabeled as staph infections caused by S. aureus. This is cause for concern since the testing to see if the bacteria are resistant to antibiotics is completely different. MRSP, which is methicillin resistant S. pseudintermedius, has similar symptoms as MRSA but has a very different treatment regimen. If you are bitten by a dog and develop boils, bone and joint pain, or nausea/vomiting, tell your doctor you were bitten by a dog and that they will need to test for MRSP instead of MRSA.
Were you bitten by a dog? The Advocates have skilled dog bite attorneys who have experience seeking compensation from the homeowner’s insurance from the owner of the dog. They can keep track of your medical bills and lost wages and receive it all back from the insurance company, as well as extra for your pain and suffering. You initial phone consultation is free and confidential so call now!