So you’re either in the unfortunate situation where you, some one you know, or a family member has received a dog bite or maybe you’re just curious of what steps to take in the case of this kind of situation. Well there are different types of dog bites, some are really bad, some are just minor injuries, and then there’s everything in-between.
The first thing you need to do is assess the situation and see what step needs to be taken next, you will most probably be able to assess whether the dog wound is serious enough for hospital straight away, or if you are the stubborn sort then if bleeding doesn’t stop within 15 minutes or so then you will need the hospitals help.
Other situations when you may need to see a doctor or go to hospital are if you think the bone may be broken, if the dogs bite is deep or gaping, if signs of infection are starting to appear like fever or wound puss, or if you have not received your tetanus injection in the last 5 years.
All the cases above could lead to much more serious problems than you might think and are all seriously recommended procedures for dog bites.
If your dog bite is serious enough to warrant hospital, then on your way to the hospital or until you get to see a trained professional about your wound you should keep firm pressure on the wound to stop any bleeding, and trying to clean out the wound of any dirt may be a good idea.
When you get to the hospital or medical department, they will need to know current medication and must know of any allergies that may affect the patient’s condition. Along with this they may need or you may want to tell a figure of authority where this attack happened, if the dog was provoked and if anyone else may be in danger so local authorities and laws may be contacted.
