Dog Bite Treatment: Essential First Aid Steps

In the United States, dog bite injuries stand at 4.5 million annually, with half of the victims being children aged 5-9 years. Some bites barely break the skin, while others are severe and deadly serious. An animal bite causes medical problems that are not presently obvious, such as rabies. If you are a parent, teacher, pet owner, or anyone who is always outdoors and interacts with dogs, this post will teach you everything you need to know about dog bites, including types of dog bites, symptoms, first aid treatment, and prevention.

 

First Aid Steps For Dog Bite Treatment

Dog bites are serious, and complications such as infections or even rabies transmission occurs. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment based on the specific circumstances of the bite. Here are some steps to consider for treating a dogbite:

  1. Ensure Safety: If the dog is still aggressive or poses a threat, ensure you and others are safe from further attacks. Try to restrain the dog if it's safe to do so, or remove yourself from the situation.
  2. Wash the Wound: Gently clean the dog bite wound with mild soap and warm water for several minutes to reduce the risk of infection. Avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as they further damage tissues.
  3. Apply Pressure: If the bite is bleeding, apply a clean cloth or sterile gauze pad to the wound and apply gentle pressure to control the bleeding. Elevating the injured area helps reduce bleeding.
  4. Bandage: Once the bleeding has stopped, cover the wound with a clean, sterile dressing or bandage to keep it clean and prevent infection. Change the dressing daily or as needed.
  5. Antibacterial Ointment: Applying an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment, like Neosporin, helps reduce the risk of infection. Follow the product instructions.
  6. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen helps alleviate pain and inflammation. Follow the dosing instructions carefully, and consult with a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  7. Seek Medical Attention: Regardless of the severity of the bite, you should seek medical attention. Dog bites introduces bacteria into the dog bite wound, leading to infection. In some cases, they require stitches or other medical treatment.
  8. Report the Bite: If the dog bite is from an unfamiliar or stray dog, report it to local animal control or law enforcement so they assess the situation and determine if the dog poses a risk to public safety.
  9. Rabies Risk: If you don't know the dog's rabies vaccination status, you need a rabies vaccination or a series of shots as a precaution. Consult a healthcare provider to assess the risk and determine if rabies prophylaxis is necessary.
  10. Follow-up Care: Follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider, such as taking prescribed antibiotics or returning for wound checks. Infections develops days after the bite.

 

1. Ensure Safety

In the event of a dog bite, the first priority is to ensure the safety of yourself and others. If the dog is still aggressive or poses a threat, it's crucial to take measures to protect everyone involved. Attempt to restrain the dog using a leash or any available materials if it's safe to do so. However, always exercise caution when attempting to restrain a dog to prevent further injuries. If it's not possible to safely restrain the dog, calmly and slowly move away from the dog to a secure location, ensuring that others do the same.

 

2. Clean the Wound

After ensuring safety, the next step is to clean the wound. Proper cleaning is essential in preventing infection. Follow this step-by-step process:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before cleaning the wound.
  2. Flush the wound with running water for 5-10 minutes. Avoid using strong soap, which irritates the tissue.
  3. Gently scrub around the wound using mild soap, being careful not to aggravate the bite area itself.
  4. Disinfect the wound with an antiseptic solution, such as iodine or hydrogen peroxide.
  5. Apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the wound with a sterile bandage.
  6. Avoid using alcohol directly on the wound, as it delays healing by damaging healthy tissue.
  7. Change the bandage daily or whenever it gets wet or dirty.

3. Apply Pressure

If the dog bite is causing bleeding, take a clean cloth or sterile gauze pad and apply it directly to the wound. Use gentle, consistent pressure to control the bleeding. This helps promote the formation of a blood clot, reducing the risk of excessive blood loss. Elevating the injured area, if possible, is beneficial in minimizing bleeding and swelling.

 

4. Bandage

Once the bleeding is under control or has stopped, cover the wound with a clean, sterile dressing or bandage. Ensure that the dressing fully covers the wound to maintain cleanliness and protect it from potential contaminants. It's important to change the dressing daily or as instructed by a healthcare provider to support healing and prevent infection.

 

5. Antibacterial Ointment

To reduce the risk of infection, consider applying an over-the-counter antibacterial ointment like Neosporin to the wound. Follow the product's instructions carefully when applying the ointment, and avoid excessive use.

 

6. Pain Relief

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) is taken to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Adhere to the dosing instructions provided on the packaging and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions.

 

7. Seek Medical Attention

Regardless of the severity of the dog bite, it's imperative to seek prompt medical attention from a healthcare provider. Dog bites introduces harmful bacteria into the wound, and complications like infection arises. Deep or extensive wounds requires stitches or other medical treatments to facilitate proper healing.

 

8. Report the Bite

In the case of a dog bite from an unfamiliar or stray dog, report the incident to local animal control or law enforcement. This action allows authorities to assess the situation and determine whether the dog poses a risk to public safety, which is vital for preventing further incidents.

 

9. Rabies Risk

If you are uncertain about the dog's rabies vaccination status, consult a healthcare provider to assess the risk. Depending on the circumstances, you  need a rabies vaccination or a series of rabies shots as a precautionary measure. Rabies is a potentially deadly disease transmitted through animal bites, so proper evaluation is crucial.

 

10. Follow-up Care

Always adhere to any instructions provided by your healthcare provider after the initial evaluation. This include taking prescribed antibiotics to prevent or treat infections or returning for wound checks. Monitor the wound closely for any signs of infection or complications, as infections develops several days after the initial bite. Report any concerning symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly to ensure appropriate care and healing.

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What is a Dog Bite?

A dog bite is a bite wound inflicted by a dog. It is hard to predict the possibility of a dog bite; it is even harder to know when a dog is about to bite. Some dogs will only bark after the bite, while some might show some aggression before the occurrence. Nevertheless, the speed at which they execute remains a mystery to most victims, and some take a few minutes before they know what to do. When it happens far from the hospital, you need a trained first aider to care for the injuries and control bleeding. Basic first aid training and certification are vital for people wishing to provide first aid in such instances.

Symptoms of Dog Bites

  • Swelling
  • Redness around the wound
  • Warmth around the wound or bite area
  • Red streaks directing away from the bite
  • Fever
  • Pain
  • Pus

Also Read- Why Parent Should Learn CPR & First Aid?

Dog bite level

Dog Bite Categories

Dog bites are classified by severity, regardless of the size or breed of the dog. Each category outlines the potential for injury, infection, and the need for medical treatment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 4.5 million dog bites occur each year in the U.S., with nearly 1 in 5 bites becoming infected. Proper classification of the bite is essential for determining the best course of action.

Level 1 Dog Bite:

In a Level 1 dog bite, the dog’s teeth do not make contact with the skin. This is often a warning or an attempt to intimidate without physical harm. Behavioral intervention is key at this stage to prevent escalation. Dogs involved in Level 1 bites are often fearful or anxious, and training helps reduce future incidents. Intervention before the dog progresses to actual biting improves the prognosis for its behavior.

Level 2 Dog Bite:

A Level 2 bite involves the dog’s teeth touching the skin without breaking it. Mild redness or bruising might occur. Although the skin remains intact, it’s essential to seek medical advice. A study from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) indicates that early intervention at this stage, including consulting with a trainer or veterinarian, helps prevent more serious future bites. Level 2 bites suggest increased stress or discomfort in the dog’s environment, which must be addressed to avoid escalation.

Level 3 Dog Bite:

In this type of bite, the dog's teeth break the skin, leaving one to four shallow puncture wounds. These bites typically don’t result in severe injury but pose a significant risk of infection. Approximately 18% of all dog bites lead to bacterial infections, which could include serious conditions like Pasteurella, Staphylococcus, and Capnocytophaga. Immediate medical attention is necessary to clean the wound and assess the need for antibiotics or a tetanus shot, especially if the dog’s vaccination status is unknown. A Level 3 bite may indicate a growing behavior problem in the dog, necessitating professional assessment.

Level 4 Dog Bite:

A Level 4 bite results in one to four punctures, with at least one puncture being deep. Bruising around the wound often occurs due to the force of the bite, and tissue damage is common. Level 4 bites are serious and require both medical attention and behavioral evaluation of the dog. According to data from DogBites.org, dogs involved in Level 4 bites often need strict control or behavioral rehabilitation, and in some cases, may pose ongoing risks to their owners or the public.

Level 5 Dog Bite:

This level involves multiple bites, including deep puncture wounds, often caused during a prolonged or repeated attack. Level 5 bites occur in severe dog attacks where the dog is highly aggressive. Dogs responsible for Level 5 bites are considered a significant danger to people and other animals. In these cases, professional intervention is crucial, and sometimes, authorities might mandate the dog’s removal from the household. In the U.S., over 800,000 people require medical care for dog bites annually, with many of these incidents involving severe bites such as those in Level 5.

Level 6 Dog Bite:

A Level 6 bite leads to the death of the victim, whether human or animal. While fortunately rare, fatal dog attacks receive widespread attention and underscore the serious nature of canine aggression when left unchecked. According to CDC data, approximately 30 to 50 fatalities from dog bites occur each year in the U.S., often involving large, powerful breeds. Dogs responsible for Level 6 bites are typically euthanized due to their extreme risk to public safety.

The Risk of Dog Bites

Levels 1 and 2 make up the vast majority of dog bite incidents, accounting for over 99% of all reported bites. These minor bites, where the skin remains intact or barely punctured, usually result from startled or nervous dogs rather than aggressive animals. Proper training, socialization, and responsible ownership improve the behavior of dogs involved in lower-level bites, reducing the likelihood of more severe incidents.

However, even minor bites should not be ignored. A study by the American Humane Society indicates that early behavioral intervention, coupled with responsible pet ownership, significantly reduces the chance of escalating to more dangerous bite levels. For victims, knowing when to seek medical attention and understanding the potential risk of infection is crucial for proper recovery.

dog bite

Dog Bite Treatment Based on Severity

Like most injuries and animal bites, treat the wound at home immediately to lower the risk of infection. The severity of bite injury ranges from one dog to another, and the animal’s force approached the victim. Nonetheless, one must learn first aid to handle the wound without exposing the victim to more injuries. It starts with an assessment of the wound. The steps you take will depend on whether the impact results in:

First Aid for Minor Wounds:

For a minor injury, you are not likely to observe a major break on the skin as it involves a slight scratch on the surface, often from a dog immunized for rabies. Nonetheless, it would help if you still had first aid to support the healing process. Trained or not, you need to do the following:

  • Clean the injury with warm, soapy water or disinfect with antibacterial cleansing agents as soon as the bite occurs. It might call for you to visit the nearest pharmacy to get the disinfectants.
  • Smear the antibiotic ointment on the surface of the injured part to prevent killing bacteria that could come from the animal’s saliva.
  • After the treatment, a clean bandage comes in handy for covering the wound to prevent microbial attacks on the raw wound. In addition, it removes dirt and prevents the delicate wound from further injuries to lengthen the healing process.
  • Monitor the injury for possible infections that manifests in pus, pain, red fluid oozing out of the wound, and unpleasant odor. In the event of a bite on a joint, fingers, hand, and feet, consider immediate medical attention to get the right prescription.

First Aid for Severe Wounds:

They include all bites and scratches that result in torn skin, deep wounds, and excess bleeding. Most of these wounds result from bites involving front teeth that grasp the skin and cause damage. With some children almost the same height as the dogs, most bites occur on the neck, lips, cheeks, nose, and facial areas. On the contrary, most adult bites happen to the hands, legs, and arms. In the event of a severe injury, consider the following:

Whether the dog bite wound is minor or severe, it's important to check for the risk of tetanus and rabies infection and choose the right antibiotics for prevention. Don't forget to take photos and make diagrams of the injury if needed.

bandage

Dog Bite Treatment at Home

Quickly assess the wound. If there is no blood, wash the bite injury with soap and water as soon as possible. If the wound is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth for 5 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Then, wash the affected area with soap and water. Flushing the wound liberally with clean water decreases the odds of a dog bite infection.

If possible, keep the affected area above the heart level to prevent swelling and infection. If the wound is open, loosely cover it with a clean, sterile bandage.

Read: How to Get First Aid Certification

If possible, ask the dog’s owner for a copy of the animal’s vaccination records. This information will help your physician decide what kind of follow-up treatment is necessary. If the dog is a stray, call animal control. They will attempt to find the dog and check for rabies.

If the dog bite is minor (Level 1, 2, or 3), it is manageable at home. Wash the wound daily, and check it for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, warmth, a foul odor, or whitish-yellow discharge.

Why is Medical Care Critical?

Unlike adults, children are likely to succumb to these injuries, so 20% of the bites require medical attention. While doctors recommend a tetanus injection every ten years, a severe wound will likely alter the protocol. If your wound is dirty and the current shot exceeds five years since injection, the physician  recommends a booster soon after the injury. Bites from unknown dogs increase the risk of rabies, hence the need for medical attention regardless of severity. If the skin swells after treatment, or you observe pus and redness in the area, contact your doctor for further treatment.

Dog Bite Medication

When treating a dog bite, medication is crucial to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. If the skin is broken, antibiotics are prescribed by a doctor, especially for bites on the hands, face, or other sensitive areas. The most common antibiotic used is amoxicillin-clavulanate, but others prescribes depending on the individual's allergies or medical condition. If the bite comes from an unknown or unvaccinated dog, rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is needed. Tetanus shots are recommended if the patient hasn't had one in the last five years. Additionally, pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

Dog Bite Supportive Therapy

Supportive therapy helps speed up recovery and prevent complications. After receiving medical care, the wound should be properly managed:

  • Wound cleaning: Regularly clean the bite with warm water and mild soap to prevent infection.
  • Dressing: Keep the wound covered with a clean, sterile bandage, and change it daily or if it gets wet or dirty.
  • Pain management: Over-the-counter painkillers are used to reduce discomfort.
  • Physical therapy: If the bite affects muscle or joint function, especially in severe cases, physical therapy is recommended to regain strength and movement.

Read the detailed Study Guide for Basic First Aid.

When Should I See a Doctor After a Dog Bite?

You should see a doctor if:

  • Bleeding doesn’t stop after 15 minutes of pressure.
  • The bite has broken the skin. A tetanus shot is necessary to reduce the possibility of tetanus infection, depending on when the victim last received a tetanus booster.
  • The victim was bit by a wild or stray dog, or you cannot obtain the animal’s immunization records from the owner.
  • The victim has a weakened immune system due to an illness or medical treatment.
  • You notice any signs of infection, including redness, swelling, warmth, or pus.
  • The bite is on the face, hands, or joints, as these areas are more prone to complications.

Depending on the severity of the bite and the victim’s overall health, the doctor recommends antibiotic ointments or treatment to prevent or treat the infection. If the dog is suspected of having rabies, the victim will need rabies vaccinations to prevent the disease’s development.

dog bite

Who to See for a Dog Bite?

Your primary healthcare provider assess and treat minor to moderate dog bites. However, if the dog bite is severe, emergency medical personnel are best equipped to manage the trauma of a dog bite. People who experience severe bites sees a plastic surgeon. In most cases, dog bite treatment is straightforward and uncomplicated. When in doubt, consult a physician.

Dog Bite in Children

Dog bites, frequently involving dogs owned by family or neighbors, are a common occurrence, particularly among children. Despite fewer instances compared to vehicle accidents, facial injuries from dog bites are significant. Data from a study covering 1,252 injuries in 967 pediatric patients reveals that 17.1% required consultation with a surgical specialist. Notably, head/neck injuries accounted for the majority (61.7%) and were most likely to necessitate surgical intervention.

Despite the prevalence of dog bites, most injuries were managed by emergency physicians, with less than 20% requiring surgical intervention, primarily for head/neck injuries. These findings underscore the importance of public education to reduce pediatric dog bites, especially considering disparities in bite frequency across socioeconomic levels and dog breeds.

How to Prevent Dog Bites?

With the high number of dog bites in the US, it's crucial to change our approach to avoid these incidents. Thankfully, many bites are prevented by following simple tips:

  1. Choose a Dog with a Good Temperament: Some dog breeds are more likely to have bad moods and bites easily. Pick a dog known for being friendly and calm.
  2. Avoid Unknown Dogs: Don't approach dogs you don't know, especially if they seem nervous or aggressive.
  3. Supervise Kids Around Dogs: Keep an eye on your children when they're with dogs, and avoid leaving them alone with unfamiliar dogs.
  4. Give Dogs Space: Don't disturb dogs, especially when they're with their puppies. Respect their personal space.
  5. Let Dogs Approach You: Instead of approaching dogs, let them come to you to avoid startling them.
  6. Stay Calm: If you encounter an aggressive dog, avoid making eye contact, screaming, or running away. Stay calm and still until the dog loses interest and leaves.

By following these tips, we reduce the risk of dog bites and keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

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Why Do Dogs Bite?

There are various reasons why dog bites, but most commonly as a reaction to something. For example, dogs bite when they are in a stressful situation, scared, threatened, or startled. They bite to protect something valuable, like their puppies, food, or toys.

What to Do Immediately After a Bite?

It would be best if you distanced yourself and the dog to lower your risk of a second chomp. Once you’ve put a safe gap between yourself and the dog, attempt to find its owner to ask about the dog’s vaccination history and veterinarian’s contact information. For a minor injury, wash the area with warm water and soap and apply antibacterial lotion.

Can a Vaccinated Dog Transmit Rabies Through a Bite?

Though the risk is extremely low, the possibility of transmission exists. A vaccinated dog that has not been exposed to rabies poses minimal risk. However, if the dog’s rabies vaccination is current, the chance of rabies transmission is nearly nonexistent. If the dog’s vaccination history is uncertain or if the dog was acting unusually, seek medical advice regarding rabies shots.

How Long After a Dog Bite Does Infection Set In?

After being bitten, most ill people will show symptoms within 3 to 5 days, but this range anywhere from 1 to 14 days.

How Long Does It Take for a Dog Bite to Heal?

The healing time for a dog bite depends on its severity:

  • Minor bites or scratches: These typically heal within a week, provided they are properly cleaned and cared for.
  • Deeper bites: These may take two to three weeks or longer to heal and might require stitches or medical care.If an infection develops, healing time extends due to the need for antibiotics and more intensive wound care.

What Should I Do If a Dog Bite Breaks the Skin?

If a dog bite breaks the skin, taking immediate action helps reduce the risk of infection and rabies. Follow these steps:

  1. Clean the wound immediately: Wash the area with soap and running water for at least 5-10 minutes to remove bacteria.
  2. Apply an antiseptic: Use iodine or hydrogen peroxide to disinfect the area thoroughly.
  3. Stop the bleeding: If the wound is bleeding, apply a clean cloth or bandage and apply gentle pressure until the bleeding stops.
  4. Cover the wound: Use a sterile bandage to cover the bite.
  5. Seek medical attention: For deep bites, those from an unknown dog, or if the wound doesn't stop bleeding, contact a healthcare provider. If the dog’s rabies vaccination status is unknown, post-exposure rabies shots may be needed.

Can a dog's diet influence its likelihood to bite?

Yes, a dog's diet influences its behavior, including its likelihood to bite. A well-balanced diet supports overall health and helps prevent aggressive behavior. Nutritional deficiencies or food sensitivities leads to irritability and aggression. Consulting with a veterinarian to ensure a dog's diet is adequate is beneficial in managing its behavior.

Are there specific breeds more prone to biting?

Yes, certain breeds have reputations for being more prone to biting due to their size, strength, or protective instincts. Breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and German Shepherds are often highlighted, but any dog bites if provoked or poorly trained. The individual dog's temperament, training, and socialization plays important roles in their behavior.

Can a dog bite cause long-term psychological effects?

Yes, a dog bite cause long-term psychological effects, especially in children. Victims develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or a fear of dogs. These psychological impacts requires therapy or counseling to address.

Do rabies vaccinations fully eliminate the risk of transmission?

No. Rabies vaccinations significantly reduce the risk of rabies transmission, but they do not fully eliminate it. While vaccinated dogs are highly unlikely to transmit rabies, no vaccine offers 100% protection. It is essential to maintain regular vaccinations and follow up with a veterinarian if a bite occurs.

Is It Necessary to Get a Tetanus Shot After a Dog Bite?

A tetanus shot becomes necessary after a dog bite if the bite breaks the skin and you haven’t had a tetanus booster within the last five years. Since dog bites introduce bacteria into the body, getting a tetanus shot helps prevent a potentially serious infection.

Is it safe to give pain relievers to pets after they bite someone?

No, it is not safe to give pain relievers to pets without consulting a veterinarian. Human pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are toxic to pets. If a pet appears to be in pain after biting someone, a veterinarian should be consulted to provide appropriate and safe pain management.

Can a Minor Dog Bite Become Infected?

Yes. Even minor dog bites that don’t seem serious become infected. Though a small scratch may not bleed much, bacteria from the dog's mouth enter the wound. Infection develops if the wound isn't cleaned and treated properly. Always disinfect minor bites and monitor them for signs of infection.

How to Treat Dog Bite Infections?

If a dog bite leads to infection, immediate treatment is essential. Common signs of infection include redness, swelling, pus, pain, and fever. When an infection is suspected:

  1. Consult a healthcare provider to evaluate the wound and prescribe antibiotics. Common treatments include amoxicillin-clavulanate or other antibiotics like clindamycin or doxycycline, depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's medical history.
  2. Wound care: The infected area should be kept clean, and any drainage may need to be managed by a healthcare professional.
  3. Pain management: Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, help reduce swelling and pain during recovery.

How can first aid training help in managing a dog bite?

First aid training helps in managing a dog bite by providing essential knowledge and skills to address the situation effectively Basic First aid training teaches how to clean and dress wounds, control bleeding, and recognize signs of infection. It guides when to seek medical help and how to provide emotional support. Enrolling in online first aid training is particularly helpful, offering convenient access to vital information and skills needed to handle dog bites effectively and prevent complications.

Enroll Now for Online First Aid Training & Certification Classes at just $19.95.  

Sources

  • Presutti RJ. Prevention and treatment of dog bites. Am Fam Physician. 2001 Apr 15;63(8):1567-72. PMID: 11327433.
  • Duncan-Sutherland N, Lissaman AC, Shepherd M, Kool B. Systematic review of dog bite prevention strategies. Inj Prev. 2022 Jun;28(3):288-297. doi: 10.1136/injuryprev-2021-044477. Epub 2022 Apr 7. PMID: 35393286.
  • Lackmann GM, Draf W, Isselstein G, Töllner U. Surgical treatment of facial dog bite injuries in children. J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 1992 Feb-Mar;20(2):81-6. doi: 10.1016/s1010-5182(05)80472-x. PMID: 1569219.
  • Lee CJ, Tiourin E, Schuljak S, Phan J, Heyming TW, Schomberg J, Wallace E, Guner YS, Vyas RM. Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Dog-bite Wounds: A 5-year Retrospective Review. West J Emerg Med. 2021 Oct 27;22(6):1301-1310. doi: 10.5811/westjem.2021.9.52235. PMID: 34787555; PMCID: PMC8597704.