How to Treat Dog Bite Wounds on Dogs

When learning how to treat dog bite wounds on your pet, it is very important to know that the wound needs to be cleaned very well to avoid infections and bacteria from forming. Bite wounds provide the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and cause damage.

No matter how small or insignificant the bite wound on your pet may appear, a visit to the veterinarian's office is always needed. Antibiotics will likely be given to your pet to help fight off potential infections. 

How to Treat a Dog Bite Wound on Dogs

As soon as you discover that your pet has been bitten, it is advised that you clean the wound as well as you can. Before touching the wound, muzzle your pet to prevent him from getting violent. After a fight, or when your pet is in pain, he may strike out at anyone who touches or comes near him and you will want to be prepared for that. 

Stop the wound from bleeding by applying pressure on it with paper towels. Make sure your hands and the paper towels are clean and free of dirt. If bleeding continues, use gauze to wrap the injured area and take your pet to veterinary clinic for emergency care as soon as possible. Any bite wounds located on the face and any wounds that have caused the skin to tear will also need immediate veterinary attention. It is very possible for your pet to bleed to death if the bite wound is severe enough, so do not hesitate for emergency care. 

If the wound has stopped bleeding and emergency care is not needed right away, trim the hair around the wound area with scissors to allow air flow and a better view of the wound. It is also advised that you check your pet's entire body for any other hidden wounds you may have missed. Once the hair has been trimmed, take your pet to the sink or shower and wash the wound with antibacterial soap.

You should use a generous amount of soap and cleanse the area for at least 2 minutes. After cleaning, flush the wound with water to remove all soap residue. Water will not hurt the wound, and will wash away all bacteria, soap, and hair that has been left behind. 

Dry the wound completely using a clean paper towel. If possible, pour hydrogen peroxide over the wound and wipe away the residue. After the hydrogen peroxide has been used, it is recommended that you apply a generous amount of antibiotic ointment to the area. You can then apply gauze to the bite wound until you see a veterinarian for treatment. The wound should be cleaned everyday at least 3 times to prevent infections from forming.

 

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