Dog bites can be very dangerous and need to be treated immediately. If you are playing with a dog who accidentally bites you or a random attack occurs, you’ll need to know what to do next. The first step in treating the wound at the scene. Then, similarly to a car wreck, you’ll want to exchange contact information with the dog’s owner. Next, see a doctor that will teach you how to prevent infection. And afterward, you’ll need to contact an attorney to see what your next steps should be. Hopefully, the wound will heal quickly and you can get assistance from a knowledgeable attorney about what to do next.
Next Steps to Take if a Dog Bites You: Immediately and Long Term
Treating at the Scene
Dog bites can be very scary to witness. The most important thing is to try and keep everybody calm while you remove the dog and get it into a confined place. Dogs can panic and get even more aggressive if you corner them. Once you are away from the dog, you’ll need to investigate the bite. Unless you are bleeding at an alarming rate or bitten somewhere vital, you can begin treating the wound at home. Wash it with mild soap and staunch the bleeding with a clean cloth. Put antibiotic cream on it and wrap it in a clean bandage.
Exchange Contact Info
Dog bites are similar to car accidents in that all parties need to exchange information. If you know who the owner of the dog is, get their contact information. You may need to contact them later regarding any legal repercussions. In addition, your doctor may have follow-up questions about the dog. Get information about their homeowner’s insurance or pet insurance if they carry it as this might cover dog bites. Also, get the contact information of any witnesses to the event.
See a Doctor
You really need to see a professional about any dog bites. Make an appointment as soon as possible if the bite is shallow. If you’re bleeding profusely or bitten on the face, you’ll probably want to go to the emergency department. You might need stitches, especially if the bite is on your face. The doctor will probably clean the wound thoroughly and prescribe antibiotics. Tetanus shots are good for ten years, but if it’s been a while since your last one or if the dog bite is dirty, the doctor might give you a tetanus booster. You might also receive a rabies vaccination if you don’t know anything about the dog. The most important thing is preventing infection, so make sure and take your antibiotics exactly as prescribed.
Contact an Attorney
Finally, dog bites can be a serious medical issue. You might need stitches or even surgery if the bite is serious enough. The medical bills alone can be astronomical. Because of this, it’s really best to contact an attorney. They can help you figure out what steps you should take next. You might be entitled to restitution for your medical expenses. Laws about dog bites vary state by state, so an experienced attorney can help you navigate the confusing legal side of this.
Dog bites can be terrifying and even deadly. It’s up to every dog owner to make sure that their animal is up to date on all vaccines and safe to be around people. If you get bitten by a dog, treat the wound at the scene with soap and then a bandage. Exchange contact information with the pet’s owner if you know who it is. Next, see a doctor immediately to prevent infection in the wound. And finally, follow up with an attorney to help you figure out what to do next. Hopefully, you’ll never experience a serious dog bite, but if you do, you’ll be prepared with these tips.