Sometimes even the best dogs have a bad day.
Dog bites are a very common occurrence and can cause anything from a mild skin tear to a sever wound requiring surgery. Dog’s teeth are very sharp and powerful and can rip and crush the skin’s surface and underlying tissue. These types on injuries often create a very jagged type of wound that is difficult to repair and often leave a scar.
One of the major complications of a dog bite is bacterial infection of the wound. 50% of dog bites infect the affected tissue with various types of bacteria: staphylococcus, streptococcus, pasteurella, as well as capnocytophaga. In feral unvaccinated dogs, rabies can also be a concern. Its best to discuss these types of wounds with a medical professional at a Bend Urgent Care.
When to go to Urgent Care?
- If the dog is unknown to you or is acting strange
- if the wound looks infected
- If the wound wont stop bleeding
- If the wound is exposing bone, tendons, or muscle
- If a fever develops
- If the bite involves a joint
How are Dog Bites Treated?
- The wound should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water
- Your tetanus vaccine should be kept up to date
- Sometimes the wound will be repaired with sutures
- Often the urgent care doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat or prevent infections
- Avoid approaching , touching or playing with any dog who is sleeping, eating, chewing on a toy or caring for puppies. Animals are more likely to bite if they’re frightened or caring for young.
- Don’t approach unknown dogs off leash
- Always ask an owner’s permission before touching or approaching a dog
- Avoid running from a dog, this increase their predatory drive
Dog bites are reported to animal control authorities and your doctor may recommend the rabies vaccination series, antibiotics and a tetanus update. If you need additional information, Call Us Today at 541-388-7799.