How to Treat a Dog Bite

If you or someone you know has been bitten by a dog, it is important to take the proper steps to ensure that the wound is properly treated and that the risk of infection is minimized. Here are some tips on how to treat a dog bite:

1. Clean the wound: Immediately after a dog bite, it is important to clean the wound with soap and water. This will help to remove any dirt or bacteria that may be present in the wound. If the wound is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth or bandage until the bleeding stops.

2. Apply an antibiotic ointment: After cleaning the wound, apply an antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection. This will also help to keep the wound moist and promote healing.

3. Cover the wound: Once the wound has been cleaned and treated with an antibiotic ointment, cover it with a sterile bandage or gauze pad. This will help to keep dirt and bacteria out of the wound and protect it from further injury. **If possible, confirm the dog is up to date on its rabies shots.

4. Seek medical attention: Seek medical attention as soon as possible, especially if the wound is deep or if there is any sign of infection (such as redness, swelling, or pus), fever, or increasing pain. A doctor can provide further treatment and may prescribe antibiotics if necessary.

5. Monitor for signs of infection: Even if you have taken all of the necessary steps to treat a dog bite, it is important to monitor for signs of infection over the next few days. If you notice any redness, swelling, or pus around the wound, contact your doctor immediately.

By following these steps, you can help ensure that a dog bite is properly treated and that the risk of infection is minimized. Dog bites that involve uncontrollable bleeding or multiple wounds should be treated in an emergency room; however  45 Urgent Care is a practical and affordable place to receive same-day dog bite treatment in non-life-threatening scenarios. If you have any questions or concerns about treating a dog bite, contact us at 731-554-0571.