Dog bite emergencies
What do I do if I’m bitten?
-
If the dog's owner is present, request proof of rabies vaccination, and get the owner's name and contact information.
-
Clean the bite wound with soap and water as soon as possible.
-
Consult your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if it's after office hours.
-
Contact the dog's veterinarian to check vaccination records.
What do I do if my dog bites someone?
-
Restrain your dog immediately.
-
Separate your dog from the scene of the bite.
-
Try to confine your dog in a safe place.
-
Check on the bite victim’s condition.
-
Make sure that the wounds are washed with soap and water.
-
Encourage the bite victim to seek professional medical advice to check on the seriousness of the wound and the risk of rabies or other infections.
-
Call 911 if a response by paramedics is needed.
-
Provide important information.
-
Give the bite victim – or others who are with the person at the time of the incident – your name, address and phone number, as well as information about your dog’s most recent rabies vaccination.
-
Obey local rules and laws regarding reporting of dog bites.
-
Talk to your veterinarian for advice about dog behavior that will help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Related articles
Socialization of dogs and cats