Healing Beyond the Bite: PALTC After Dog Attack

Dog attacks represent a growing public health concern in the United States, with 4.5 million injuries, and 800,000 of those seeking medical treatment annually. Although children and younger adults experience higher overall bite rates, older adults are disproportionately affected by injury severity due to age-related frailty, impaired balance, and reduced physiologic reserve. The consequences of dog attacks in older adults extend beyond the initial physical trauma. These patients often face prolonged recovery periods complicated by comorbidities, impaired mobility, and psychological sequelae such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress.