Dog bites can cause serious injuries, leading to infections, scarring, and long-term health complications. If a dog bites you in Virginia, you must seek proper medical treatment right away to reduce the risk of these issues. This article explains the medical treatments you might need after a dog bite.
Immediate first aid for dog bites
The first step after a dog bite is to clean the wound. Wash the area with soap and water to remove dirt and bacteria. Apply pressure to stop any bleeding, and if the wound is large or deep, cover it with a clean, sterile bandage. Elevating the area can also help reduce swelling. These initial actions are helpful, but you must seek professional medical care as soon as possible.
Professional medical treatments
Once you see a doctor, they will assess the severity of the dog bite. For minor wounds, the doctor will clean the injury, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a bandage. For deeper or more serious bites, such as punctures or tears, the doctor will likely need to stitch the wound to prevent infection and minimize scarring.
Along with cleaning and stitching the wound, the doctor will often prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection, since dog mouths carry harmful bacteria. Depending on the depth of the bite and your immunization status, you might also need a tetanus shot.
Treating infection and ongoing care
Infections are a common concern after dog bites, so you need follow-up care. If the wound shows signs of infection—like redness, swelling, increased pain, or pus—contact your doctor immediately. In some cases, infections like rabies or cellulitis may develop, requiring further treatments such as additional antibiotics or a rabies vaccination series.
Even after the initial treatment, keep monitoring the wound for complications. If the bite causes damage to nerves, muscles, or bones, you may need physical therapy to restore normal function.
Dog bites require prompt medical care to prevent complications and help speed up recovery. Seek medical attention after a dog bite, even if the injury seems minor.
