Dog attacks are a terrifying experience. For children, the psychological damage might be significantly worse. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, children are the most likely victims of a dog bite and usually, the dog is previously known.
See below for more about psychological damage, such as post-traumatic stress disorder in children after a dog attack. Knowing the symptoms might help you seek treatment.
Early Signs Of PTSD
Some obvious signs of PTSD include extreme fear of dogs, whether in person or represented on TV. If you notice your child acting fearful towards dogs in any capacity, there are a few questions you should ask them gently. For one, ask if they have feelings of fear they cannot explain when alone. Perpetual anxiety is a significant indicator of PTSD. Another indicator might be their dreams. Many dog bite victims have recurring nightmares that prevent them from sleeping well. When you ask your child about this, be very careful. You do not want to make them feel ashamed about their feelings or trigger an episode. A trained professional should do most of the psychological work.
Moving Forward After The Incident
The United States is a dog-loving country, so it will be difficult for your child to avoid exposure to dogs. Rather than avoid the problem, your best option is to seek treatment as soon as possible. You may also feel guilt for allowing the attack to happen. Getting help for yourself and learning to care for a child with PTSD should also be a priority.
Unfortunately, dog attacks are a risk in the US. After one happens, do not waste time blaming yourself or the child. Get professional help to start the healing process right away.