Dog bites should always be taken seriously because they can lead to infections, tetanus, nerve injury, and rabies, which is almost always fatal once symptoms appear.
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Dog bites should always be taken seriously because they can lead to infections, tetanus, nerve injury, and rabies, which is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. The actions taken in the first few minutes and hours are critical.
1. Stay Calm and Move to Safety
Immediately move away from the dog to prevent further bites. Do not panic, shout or try to attack the animal, as this may worsen the situation. If the dog is known, calmly note its owner and any information about vaccination, but do not delay first aid for this. Staying calm allows you to act quickly and correctly.
2. Wash the Wound Immediately (Most Crucial Step)
Wash the bite wound as soon as possible under running clean water for at least 10–15 minutes. Use soap and gently clean all bite marks, puncture woundsand surrounding skin. Allow the water to flow freely into the wound so saliva, dirt and germs are flushed out thoroughly. This single step can significantly reduce the risk of rabies and bacterial infection and should never be skipped.
3. Control Bleeding Safely
If there is mild bleeding, continuous washing usually helps stop it. In case of heavier bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or bandage until bleeding reduces. If possible, keep the injured area raised. Avoid tying the wound too tightly, as this can damage tissue and worsen injury.
4. Apply an Antiseptic after Washing
Once the wound is clean and bleeding is controlled, apply a medical antiseptic such as povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine. This helps kill remaining germs. Avoid using traditional or home remedies like turmeric, ash, chilli powder, lime, oil, or toothpaste, as these can contaminate the wound and increase infection risk.
5. Do Not Close the Wound at Home
Do not stitch, glue, tightly bandage, or tape the wound at home. Dog bite wounds should remain slightly open so that bacteria can drain out naturally. Closing the wound traps germs inside and increases the chance of severe infection. If needed, cover it loosely with a clean dressing.
Medical evaluation is necessary the same day, even if the wound looks small or painless. A doctor must assess the depth of the injury and infection risk. Immediate medical care is especially important for deep wounds, bites on the face, hands, feet, neckor genitals, multiple bites and bites in children, elderly individualsor pregnant women.
7. Rabies Prevention is Non-Negotiable
Rabies is a fatal disease once symptoms begin, but it is completely preventable if treated early. A doctor will decide whether anti-rabies vaccination and rabies immunoglobulin are needed, particularly for deep or bleeding wounds. Do not delay treatment while waiting to observe the dog, especially in cases involving stray or unknown animals.
8. Tetanus Injection and Antibiotics
A tetanus booster may be required if you are not up to date with your vaccination. In some cases, antibiotics are prescribed to prevent serious bacterial infections, especially for deep or contaminated wounds. Always complete the full course as advised.
9. Monitor the Wound for Danger Signs
Keep a close watch on the bite area over the next few days. Increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth, pus discharge, fever, numbness, or difficulty moving the affected part are warning signs that need immediate medical attention.
10. What You Must Not Do
Do not ignore small bites or scratches; do not depend on home remedies, and do not delay medical care or vaccinations. Never assume a pet dog cannot transmit infection or rabies.
A dog bite should never be taken lightly, no matter how small or harmless it appears. Immediate and thorough washing of the wound, proper antiseptic care, and timely medical attention are the most effective steps to prevent serious infections and rabies. Delaying treatment, relying on home remedies, or assuming the dog is safe can put life at risk. With dog bites, early action can mean the difference between complete recovery and life-threatening complications. When in doubt, always choose safety and seek medical care without delay.
Dr. Aravind S. N,
Lead Consultant - Internal Medicine, Aster RV Hospital.