Did you know that dog bites cause more than 85% of animal bite injuries?
Though most dog bite wounds are minor and heal on their own, it’s essential to have yourself checked by a doctor, even if it doesn’t look serious. Dog bite wounds can be severe if left untreated. It can lead to infections.
How to treat dog bite wounds? We’ve got your back. Keep reading to learn more about treating dog bite wounds.
Assess the Severity of the Bite
Inspect the surrounding tissue for bruising, redness, or swelling. If these signs of inflammation are present, the wound will likely be more severe as the tissue response to the bite begins.
After assessing the wound, tetanus and rabies immunizations should be updated, as dog bites are known to be a common source of both infections. Lastly, the vet or medical professional should be consulted to provide further guidance on wound care and infection prevention or treatment, as needed.
How to Treat Dog Bite Wounds: Clean and Disinfect the Wound
The affected area should be washed thoroughly with warm soapy water. An antiseptic solution can then be used to disinfect the area further.
After washing and disinfecting the wound, it should be relieved of any debris or foreign material and dried with sterile gauze. Make sure not to scrub or rub the wound, or it may become further irritated and inflamed.
The wound must also be periodically cleaned and preferably covered with a sterile dressing and antibiotic ointment while it heals.
When to Seek Professional Assistance for a Dog Bite Wound
It is vital to watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or drainage from the wound, as this could indicate a need for additional medical treatment. You should immediately consult your doctor or seek medical attention if the wound becomes inflamed.
Antibiotics may be necessary to help protect against infection, and possible vaccinations such as a tetanus shot. Plastic surgeons may sometimes be required to help close and repair punctures from dog bites.
It is also essential to observe the behavior of the dog that bit you, as this could help prevent future attacks. Furthermore, monitor your connection for any signs of infection or reaction.
If you need legal assistance, check out this dog bite lawyer.
These Tips Will Help You Treat Dog Bites Safely
When treating dog bite wounds, it is essential to act quickly and adequately in case of a dog bite. Clean the wound with warm, soapy water and cover it with a sterile bandage. If the bleeding is severe, seek medical attention right away.
Remember to keep a watchful eye on the wound’s condition and watch out for signs of infection. If you need additional information on how to treat dog bite wounds, consult your doctor or a veterinary professional.
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