How Can You Avoid Dog Bite Complications?

When you imagine a dog attack, you probably imagine a stray dog. The truth is that most dogs that bite are ones who are familiar with the person that they bit.  Often, it is a family dog or a friend’s pet.

According to WebMD, over four million Americans suffer dog bites every year. If you experience a dog bite, treatment may be necessary to avoid complications.

Dog Bite Concerns

When bit by a dog, there are more concerns than just the injury itself. It is important to find out if the dog is up to date on its vaccinations. If you know the dog’s owners, it is crucial to ask about vaccinations and the dog’s health record. Also, you need to think about the incident and ask yourself if you or the victim provoked the dog. Sometimes, provocation can be something small. For instance, you could pet a dog while it is eating or startle a dog and wind up with a bite.

If you have any other illnesses or conditions, document them for the doctor. Illnesses such as diabetes can suppress your immune system and lead to an infection.

Dog Bite Treatment

After a dog bite, your first move is to stop any bleeding. Use a clean towel to press against the wound. Elevate the injury and wash it with soap and water. If you have a sterile bandage, wrap it. In some cases, you may need to visit a doctor. If the puncture wounds are deep, if you cannot stop the bleeding or if you did not know the dog, you need to see a physician as soon as possible.