subject: What You Need To Know About Dog Bites [print this page] So you are either in the bad situation where you, some one you know, or a family member has received a dog bite or probably you're just curious of what steps to take in the case of this kind of situation. Well there are different types of dog bites, some are really bad, some are just minor injuries, and then there's everything in-between.
The primary thing you must do is think about the situation and see what steps have to be taken next, you will most probably be able to assess whether the dog wound is serious enough for hospital straight away, or if you are the stubborn sort then if bleeding doesn't stop within 15 minutes or so then you will need the hospitals help.
Other situations when you might have to see a doctor or visit a hospital are if you think the bone might be broken, if the dogs bite is deep or gaping, if signs of infection are beginning to appear like fever or wound puss, or if you have not received your tetanus injection in the last 5 years.
All the cases above could lead to much more serious complications than you may think and are all seriously recommended procedures for dog bites.
If your dog bite is bad enough to warrant hospital, then on your way to the hospital or until you get to see a trained expert about your wound you should keep firm pressure on the wound to stop any bleeding, and attempting to clean out the wound of any dirt might be a great idea.
Once you reach the hospital or medical clinic, they will need to know current medication and must know of any allergies that may affect the patient's condition. Along with this they may need or you may want to tell a figure of authority where this attack happened, if the dog was aggravated and if anybody else is in danger so local police and laws can be contacted.
