Animal bites / Dog bites - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide
Overview Domestic pets cause more bites Dogs more likely to bite, cats more infectious Risk of rabies with non-immunized pets / stray/wild animals Raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats too carry rabies Symptoms Skin break Bruise / puncture Cuts Bleeding Swelling and redness of the area Oozing of fluid Treatment Calm the affected person Wash hands before attending to wound Wash wound with soap & running water Apply antibiotic ointment Dress using a sterile bandage After first aid, medical treatment must be sought quickly Suturing may be required Tetanus booster / antibiotics required Treatment depends on the type/location of the wound Prevention Avoid keeping wild animals as pets Choose a pet that is friendly to children Train the pet to obey commands Vaccinate your pet When children are around, pets supervision is required Avoid leaving infants alone with pets Source