Woman Attacked by Rottweiler in Gated Community in Bergen County
Dog bites can be serious, and a person can be attacked at any time. A woman was seriously injured on the afternoon of November 20 after being attacked by a large dog in a gated community in Bears Nest Condominium Complex in Park Ridge, which is located in Bergen County.
Officers from Park Ridge Police Department and Montvale Police Department responded to the scene shortly after 5:00 p.m. The victim sustained multiple serious injuries; Montvale officers applied a tourniquet to stop severe bleeding while waiting for emergency medical services.
Investigators found that the victim had been walking her small leashed dog when a leashed rottweiler belonging to another resident “became uncontrolled” and attacked her. Her small dog was not injured.
The rottweiler’s owner provided proof of vaccination, and the dog was placed under a 10-day rabies quarantine, per state protocol. When the attack occurred, an unidentified person intervened and sustained a minor bite; that person declined medical treatment.
The injured woman was taken to Hackensack University Medical Center. She was listed in stable condition.
Authorities have notified the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, Bergen County Animal Control, and the Bergen County Health Department, which will help determine next steps in this ongoing investigation.
Common Effects of Dog Bites
- Puncture wounds and lacerations. Dog teeth can create deep punctures or tearing injuries. Even small punctures may become infected because they trap bacteria under the skin.
- Up to half of dog bites can lead to infection if untreated. Common infections include cellulitis, staph, strep, and in rare cases, more serious illnesses like MRSA.
- Bleeding and tissue damage. Strong jaws can cause significant trauma. Victims may experience excessive bleeding, bruising, muscle damage, or crushed tissue, especially in bites from large breeds.
- Nerve damage. Deep bites can injure nerves, leading to numbness, tingling, weakness, or long-term mobility issues in the affected area.
- Scarring and disfigurement. Facial bites, deep lacerations, or repeated tearing movements can leave lasting scars. Some victims require cosmetic or reconstructive surgery.
- Broken bones. Severe bites, particularly to hands, arms, or legs, may fracture small bones. Children are especially vulnerable.
- Rabies and other disease concerns. If the dog’s vaccination status is unclear, victims may require rabies prophylaxis. Tetanus shots may also be necessary.
- Emotional and psychological trauma. Victims, especially children, often develop fear of dogs, anxiety, nightmares, or PTSD-like symptoms.
- Reduced mobility. Severe bites to hands, arms, or legs can limit movement due to pain, tendon damage, or infection.
- Financial and practical impact. Medical bills, time off work, and long-term treatment (such as wound care, antibiotics, or therapy) can create significant financial strain.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Dogs are not always nice and friendly. They can attack for various reasons, causing injuries to people, other dogs, and other animals.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, a Morristown dog bite injury attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can assist you. It is important that victims understand their legal rights and options for compensation. See how we can help. Call (973) 455-1567 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation today.
Source:
patch.com/new-jersey/ridgewood/woman-mauled-dog-bergen-county-nj-gated-community-police
