Dog Bite

A dog bite can cause a wound deep enough to break the skin. In such cases, the wound is cleaned and sometimes closed. Wounds would be closed if they are gaping open or in cosmetically important areas such as the face. If the wound is closed, it is usually not completely closed. This is so that fluid can drain if the wound becomes infected. Wounds will often be left open to heal. In addition to wound care, a tetanus shot (injection) may be given, if needed.

Home care

• Wash your hands well with soap and warm water before and after caring for the wound. This helps lower the risk of infection.
• Wash bite with warm water and soap.
• Care for the wound as directed. If a dressing was applied to the wound, be sure to change it as directed.
• If the wound bleeds, place a clean, soft cloth on the wound. Then firmly apply pressure until the bleeding stops. This may take up to 5 minutes. Do not release the pressure and look at the wound during this time.
• Most wounds heal within 10 days. But an infection can occur even with proper treatment. So be sure to check the wound daily for signs of infection (see below).
• Antibiotics may be prescribed. These help prevent or treat infection. If you are given antibiotics, take them as directed. Also be sure to complete the medicines.

Rabies prevention

Rabies is a virus that can be carried in certain animals. These can include domestic animals such as dogs and cats. Pets fully vaccinated against rabies (2 shots) are at very low risk of infection. But because human rabies is almost always fatal, any biting pet should be confined for 10 days as an extra precaution. In general, if there is a risk for rabies, the following steps may need to be taken:

• If someone’s pet dog has bitten you, it should be kept in a secure area for the next 10 days to watch for signs of illness. (If the pet owner won’t allow this, contact your local animal control center.) Ask to see the pet's vaccination history records.  If the dog becomes ill or dies during that time, contact your local animal control center at once so the animal may be tested for rabies. If the dog stays healthy for the next 10 days, there is no danger of rabies in the animal or you.
• If a stray dog bit you, contact your local animal control center. They can give information on capture, quarantine, and animal rabies testing.
• If you cannot find the animal that bit you in the next 2 days, and if rabies exists in your area, you may need to receive the rabies vaccine series. Call your healthcare provider right away or return to the emergency department promptly.
• All animal bites should be reported to the local animal control center. If you were not given a form to fill out, you can report this yourself.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as directed.

© The StayWell Company, LLC. 800 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. This information has been modified by your health care provider with permission from the publisher.