First Aid for Dog Bites

Animal attacks can be frightening and lead to serious wounds and infections. Dog bites are one of the most common types of attacks due to the close proximity of household pets. It’s useful to know what to do when someone has been bitten…

Danger

Certain types of dogs can become highly aggressive, even when they have not been provoked. The number one priority in these situations is to ensure that the casualty and any bystanders are not in further danger of being attacked. Escape the scene before treating the casualty.

Assess

Sadly there are many cases of dog attacks that lead to fatalities. Once clear of danger it is important to assess the level of damage inflicted on the casualty. Call 999 immediately if the casualty has stopped breathing, become unconscious or has pulsating blood leaving a wound.

When there is no threat to life serious wounds will need to be assessed for their depth and presence of foreign objects. Shout for help and source the nearest first aid kit.

Treat

Animals mouths and saliva often carry bacteria which could lead to nasty infections. When possible clean the wound with water to ensure that bacteria is washed away. This goes against the normal protocol of controlling major bleeding but it is important under these circumstances.

Place on disposable gloves and dress the wound with a clean, dry sterile dressing. Apply the bandage under pressure to limit the loss of blood from the body. Once the wound is dressed consider going to hospital to have it fully assessed.

In more serious cases someone could be suffering with life threatening wounds. Call 999 immediately and place as much pressure as possible across a wound. Perform CPR to any casualty that has stopped breathing and use the recovery position if a casualty becomes unconscious.