Getting bitten by a dog can be a frightening experience. Whether it’s a small nip or a deeper bite, it’s important to know what to do right away and when to seek medical attention.
Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the situation.
Recommended Videos
VIDEO: KPRC 2 witnesses vicious dog attacks during report in Liberty County
Should You See a Doctor?
When it comes to dog bites, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Here are some situations where you should definitely head to the doctor:
- The bite breaks the skin – Even a small puncture can lead to infection.
- The bleeding won’t stop – If you’ve been applying pressure and the bleeding continues after 15 minutes, it’s time to get checked out.
- It’s been more than 5 years since your last tetanus shot – Tetanus is a risk with any open wound.
- You’re concerned about infection – If you notice redness, swelling, warmth, or pus around the bite, or if the pain is getting worse, you’ll need medical attention.
- You’re unsure about the dog’s vaccination history – If the dog was unprovoked, and you don’t know if it’s had its rabies shots, you may need a rabies vaccination.
What Happens When You Go to the Doctor?
If you decide to seek medical help, here’s what you can expect when you arrive:
1. Cleaning the Wound
The first thing the doctor will do is clean the wound thoroughly. They’ll use antiseptics to disinfect it and remove any foreign material, such as dirt or tooth fragments. Cleaning the bite properly is crucial to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Stitches or Bandages
Depending on the severity of the bite, you may need stitches to close the wound. If it’s a deeper or jagged wound, the doctor may need to trim away some damaged tissue to ensure a clean surface for stitching. If the wound is minor, they’ll likely bandage it up and give you care instructions for at-home treatment.
3. Tetanus Shot
If you haven’t had a tetanus shot in the last 5 years—or if you’re unsure when you had your last one—the doctor will give you a tetanus booster. Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that can develop from dirty wounds, so this step is important for preventing complications.
4. Antibiotics
Given that dog mouths are full of bacteria, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent an infection from developing. If the bite is deep or showing signs of infection, they might recommend a stronger course of antibiotics or even IV antibiotics for more serious cases.
5. Rabies Vaccination
If the dog’s vaccination history is unknown and there’s concern about rabies, the doctor may start the rabies vaccination series. This involves a series of shots over a few weeks.
However, if the dog is known to be vaccinated, the doctor might suggest waiting for 10 days to observe the dog for signs of rabies instead.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, approximately 10-15% of dog bites become infected. Deep bites and wounds on the hand are especially risky.
SEE ALSO: Expert shares tips to protect against aggressive dogs
How to Care for the Wound at Home
After leaving the doctor, you’ll need to take care of the wound at home. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Keep the area clean – Wash the wound gently with soap and water daily.
- Change the dressing – Follow the doctor’s instructions about when and how to change any bandages.
- Watch for infection – Keep an eye out for swelling, redness, or pus, and notify your doctor if these symptoms occur.
- Pain relief – You can use over-the-counter pain relievers to help with any discomfort, but check with your doctor first if you’re unsure.
Reporting the Bite
In Texas, you’re required to report animal bites. If you’ve been bitten, contact 311 to report the incident. You’ll need to provide:
- Your name and contact info
- A description of the dog and the location of the bite
- The contact information of the dog’s owner (if available)
This helps authorities track rabies and ensure that animals are vaccinated properly.
Click here for more stories involving dog attacks
