How to Treat a Dog Bite
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How to Treat a Dog Bite
Introduction
More than 4 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year; about 750,000 cases are severe enough to require medical attention.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Steps
1
Step One
Clean the wound immediately with soap and water, rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide.
2
Step Two
Put pressure on the wound to stop bleeding.
3
Step Three
Hold the wound above your heart if the bite is on your hand or arm.
4
Step Four
Place a clean bandage over the wound.
5
Step Five
Assess the wound for signs of infection: unusual redness or swelling, increasing warmth in the area, red streaking, fever. See a doctor if an infection develops.
6
Step Six
Get a tetanus shot if your primary series is incomplete or if more than five years have elapsed since your last shot.
7
Step Seven
Determine the rabies vaccine status of the dog. If its vaccine status is uncertain, the dog should be observed for 15 days to see if it develops signs of rabies.
Tips & Warnings
- The rabies virus is 100 percent fatal if you do not receive a vaccine in time.
- Seek medical care if wound is gaping, if bleeding does not stop within 15 minutes, if you were bitten on the face and the skin is broken, or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
Overall Things You'll Need
- Rabies Vaccines
- Tetanus Shots
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Bandages
- Antibacterial Soaps
- Hydrogen Peroxides
Relative Topics
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