An anxious or aggressive dog can make meeting a dog go from happy to terrifying. Rather than a wagging tail, you could be met with sharp teeth and a powerful jaw reacting to an uncomfortable situation.
Experiencing a dog bit can be as traumatic as it is painful. However, knowing what you need to do after experiencing a dog bite is essential.
Here’s what you should know about dog bites and what you should do if you or a loved one gets bitten.
Talking to the owner
Unfortunately, the dog’s owner may be unpredictable after a bite. Some may feel embarrassed, some may try to get away, and others may get angry.
Get the owner’s information and ask about the dog’s vaccination record if you can. If it is not safe to talk to the owner, try to make a note of what they look like and the location of the incident.
Seeking medical attention
A dog bite can range from a minor scrape to a serious wound. While some bites may not need medical care, if you do not know the dog’s vaccination record, it is better to seek medical attention immediately if there is an open wound. You should also seek medical care in the following circumstances:
- Large or deep wounds
- Wounds on vulnerable areas such as your head or neck
- Profuse bleeding
- Extreme pain
One of the challenges with dog bites is that you may not see symptoms of a disease like rabies until it is too late for treatment, so it is essential to get treatment right away.
You should be careful when you are meeting a new or strange dog. While many dogs are friendly, some may become reactive and dangerous when stressed or uncomfortable.