Treating a Dog Bite and Preventing Infection

Erik • February 8, 2019

Dog bites aren’t as uncommon as one would think. Nearly 4.7 million Americans will be bitten by a dog every year. If you ever find yourself as one of these unlucky few, it is essential to know how to treat a dog bite to prevent an infection.

How Do I Prevent a Dog Bite?

When it comes to a dog bite, it’s likely a random, unfortunate event. There are measures to be taken by either a dog owner or an individual that can help prevent a potential dog bite from happening. Here are some tips to consider:

  • Looking for a new pet? Consider a dog with a sweet, mild temperament
  • Remain calm and allow an unknown dog to come to you during interactions
  • If a dog becomes aggressive, avoid eye contact and walk away slowly
  • Try and stay away from any dogs that are not familiar to you or your family
  • Keep dogs at a distance when it comes to younger children

Did you know that most dog bites reported come from dogs that are familiar to the owner? If you ever experience an unknown dog, it’s best to call your local animal control to handle the situation.

How Do I Treat a Dog Bite?

If you ever experience a dog bite , it’s essential to treat and care for the wound as soon as possible to prevent infection. Whether the dog is known or not, always consult with your doctor. Your doctor may suggest the following self-care at home:

  • Let the wound bleed a little to flush out any infection before applying a bandage.
  • Wash the bite carefully with warm water and soap.
  • Apply an antibiotic ointment and sterile dressings to the wound and change them several times a day.
  • If the injury was severe, it might require sutures or stitches.

As you speak with your doctor, they may ask whether or not you knew the dog and if you did, if you were aware of current vaccinations. If the dog was unknown, the doctor might give you a rabies vaccination, tetanus shot, or prescribe an antibiotic if an infection is present. Signs of infection may include:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Fever
  • Increased pain

Finding Help with a Dog Bite Lawyer

A dog bite injury can leave you with physical and emotional trauma, especially for children. With the help of a dog bite lawyer like Ahlander Injury Law , you can find compensation for your dog bite injury.

If an unknown dog or other animal has bitten you or someone you know, please call our office today for a consultation.

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