If a Dog Bites You, Do These 7 Things Now
You’re playing with your dog, and somehow, between growls and tail wags, it can happen. Those canine teeth may bite or scratch. Or alternatively, you may be walking down a street and an unknown mutt may attack without warning.
When this occurs, it is critical that you take early action to ensure that you drastically limit the risk of infection by promptly treating the wound. Infections from dog bites are often caused by bacteria such as staphylococcus, streptococcus, pasteurella, and capnocytophaga, as well as rabies, particularly in unvaccinated and wild dogs.
Either way, there are steps to take immediately to treat the wound and reduce the risk of infection. You will need professional medical care the same day.
Whatever happens, make sure you see a doctor within eight hours of a dog bite, he says. Waiting longer increases your risk of infection. If you have diabetes or are immunocompromised, your risk of infection is even higher.
7 steps to treat a dog bite
If a dog bites you, take these steps immediately:
- Wash the wound. Use mild soap, and run hot tap water over it for five to 10 minutes.
- Slow the bleeding with a clean cloth.
- Apply antibiotic cream over the counter if you have it.
- Wrap the wound in a sterile bandage.
- Keep the wound bandage on and consult your doctor.
- Change the bandage several times a day after your doctor has examined the wound.
- Watch for signs of infection, including redness, swelling, increased pain, and fever.
Some foods have been shown to speed wound healing, so eating them after being bitten by a dog may be beneficial.
Some examples of such foods are:
- Vegetables with lots of leafy greens (kale, spinach, etc.)
- Eggs
- Sardines
- Berry
- Pistachios
- Chicken and other poultry (Chicken and Turkey)
- Organ Meats
- Mollusks
Source:health.clevelandclinic.org,sleekgist.com
