Why are dog bites so scary?
The worst thing about biting is the risk of contracting rabies from a sick dog, since, unfortunately, at the moment this disease is incurable and fatal. That is, in simple words, if you become infected, without a vaccine administered on time, you will die. And it will be too late to introduce it at the moment when the first signs of the disease appeared. Also learn more about dog bite attack in new jersey.
Often, victims believe that if the dog has not bitten through the skin or there is no blood, or there is little of it, then you can ignore such a bite. This is absolutely wrong. The fact is that the virus is transmitted with saliva and infected saliva can remain on the surface of the skin. Through small scratches or cracks in the skin, the virus can enter the body. Infection will still occur. Therefore, in any case, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
If the doctor prescribes treatment for you or your child, do not refuse in any case. Many are frightened by stories about 40 injections in the stomach from rabies.
I can reassure you - this is already a distant past. Now they make 6 injections for 3 months, which completely remove the virus. Injections are made in the shoulder, which is much easier to carry. At the same time, if the bitten animal does not show signs of the disease within 10 days, then there may be fewer injections. The doctor will determine how many are needed. If it is impossible to trace the attacking dog, then you will have to endure all these procedures. But in any case, it is better than dying painfully from rabies.
First aid for a bite victim
If the most unpleasant thing happened and you or your child was bitten by a dog, try to pull yourself together first and not panic. If there is no emergency room nearby, then it is better to go home, give the victim first aid, and then call an ambulance or go with the victim to the hospital.
Before contacting a doctor, thoroughly wash the bite site with clean water and soap to clean the wound of dirt and saliva. Antibacterial or regular laundry soap is best. Treat the wound with an antiseptic. This may be a solution of hydrogen peroxide or chlorhexidine. After this, the edges of the wound are carefully treated with a solution of iodine.
Small bleeding should not be stopped for a while - along with the blood, dirt and infection will come out of the wound. In case of severe bleeding, it is necessary to apply a tight sterile bandage.
Please remember: the sooner you see a doctor and start treatment, the better the chances of a full recovery.
A few words about how to reduce the risk of attack
There are a few simple rules that will help reduce the risk of attacks and bites. Memorize them yourself and teach your children.
- Do not grab the dog by the muzzle, ears and tail even during the game. Do not make sudden movements, do not wave your arms, especially near an unfamiliar dog.
- Never look your dog in the eye for a long time. She may take this as a challenge and attack.
- Do not touch the dog while eating, in no case try to take away the bowl of food from him.
- Never run away from an approaching unfamiliar dog. He will take this as a signal to attack.
A dog bite is an unpleasant and sometimes dangerous event. But it's not always the dog's fault. You should not be careless and approach unfamiliar dogs, try to stroke them, and even more so show aggression. But if everything has already happened - give the victim first aid and go to the emergency room.
And most importantly - in no case do not refuse the prescribed treatment!
