What to Do After Being Bitten by a Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide

Dog bites can be a traumatic experience, but knowing the right steps to take immediately afterward can significantly reduce the risk of infection and complications. Whether the bite is from a familiar pet or a stray dog, follow this guide to ensure your safety and health.

Step 1: Assess the Wound

Minor Bite

• Clean the Wound: Gently wash the bite area with soap and warm water. Allow water to run over the wound for several minutes to remove dirt and bacteria.
• Apply an Antibiotic: Use an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
• Bandage the Wound: Cover the bite with a clean, sterile bandage.

Severe Bite

• Control Bleeding: If the bite is deep and bleeding heavily, apply pressure with a clean cloth or bandage to stop the bleeding.
• Seek Medical Attention: Go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center for professional treatment.

Step 2: Identify the Dog

If possible, try to identify the dog that bit you. This is crucial for determining the dog’s vaccination status and reducing the risk of rabies. If the dog is a stray or you cannot find the owner, contact animal control to report the incident.

Step 3: Seek Medical Care

Even if the bite seems minor, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Dog bites can introduce bacteria into your bloodstream, leading to infections like tetanus or rabies. Your doctor may:

• Clean the Wound: Deeply clean the wound to prevent infection.
• Prescribe Antibiotics: Prevent potential bacterial infections.
• Administer a Tetanus Shot: If you haven’t had one in the last five years.
• Evaluate for Rabies: If the dog’s rabies vaccination status is unknown.

Step 4: Report the Incident

Report the dog bite to your local animal control or health department. This helps track potentially dangerous animals and ensures they are appropriately quarantined or tested for diseases like rabies.

Step 5: Document the Incident

Keep detailed records of the bite incident, including:

• Photos of the Wound: Take clear pictures of the bite marks and the surrounding area.
• Medical Records: Keep all medical documentation, including doctor visits, treatments, and prescriptions.
• Incident Report: Note the date, time, location, and circumstances of the bite.

Step 6: Consider Legal Action

If the dog bite results in significant injury or medical expenses, you may want to consult with a personal injury attorney. They can help you understand your rights and potentially seek compensation for:

• Medical Bills: Covering the cost of treatment and medication.
• Lost Wages: If the bite causes you to miss work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensating for physical and emotional distress.

Step 7: Follow Up on Medical Care

Follow your doctor’s recommendations for wound care and attend all follow-up appointments. This ensures proper healing and allows your healthcare provider to monitor for signs of infection.

Preventing Dog Bites

To minimize the risk of future dog bites:

• Avoid Unknown Dogs: Do not approach unfamiliar dogs, especially if they are unleashed or seem aggressive.
• Read Body Language: Learn to recognize signs of aggression or fear in dogs, such as growling, baring teeth, or stiff posture.
• Educate Children: Teach children how to interact safely with dogs, including not pulling on ears or tails and avoiding sudden movements.