Posted on August 31, 2018 at 9:28 AM by Kara Fleming
When an accident happens resulting in a dog bite, adrenaline can skyrocket and it can be hard to think clearly. Anytime we go out with our dogs, or dogs are present, there is a chance a dog bite can occur. It is worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the following action plan to follow should you or your dog be bitten or your dog bites.
Step One:
If you or your dog are bitten and there is a puncture wound, be sure to gather the information of the “biting” dog’s owner. This could be a name, phone number, address, dog’s name and description, and rabies vaccine history. If your dog has done the biting, it is proper etiquette to offer your information. If your dog has long or thick hair and has gotten in a fight, be sure to give him or her a thorough once over to check for punctures that may not be clearly visible.
Step Two:
Depending on the severity of the bite, seek medical attention right away. Even if the bite seems unsubstantial, bites received from other carnivorous animals require a rabies booster for your pet and possibly post-exposure vaccines for humans depending if the biting dog is available for quarantine.
Step Three:
Report the bite to local Animal Control in the town where the bite occurred. Most veterinarians will do this for you if they’re told the injury came from a bite.
Step Four:
If your dog has done the biting, expect a call from Animal Control to quarantine your dog. The quarantine process is 10 days and consists of the pooch being put on “Doggy House Arrest.” If after 10 days your pup remains healthy and free from illness, the Animal Control Officer will return to release your dog.
If you have additional questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.