Have you ever been bitten by a dog?
The CDC says that dog bites are a serious public health problem. They are the most reported vector of rabies in humans in the United States. Besides rabies, dog bites can cause serious infections.
These bites can happen to anyone, whether you’re a child or a full-grown adult. This requires hospitalization and antibiotics to prevent future issues. You should know what to do if it happens to you.
Keep reading to learn more about what to do when you get bit by a dog.
Assess the Injury
After a dog bite, you must know the basic first aid for dog bites. Wash the dog bite injury with soap and running water to avoid infection. Asses the injury based on its severity and know whether you need medical attention.
Seek Medical Attention
If needed, seek medical attention immediately. Get medical help as soon as possible, as dog bite injuries can be serious. Record when the bite happened and any information about the dog.
Identify the Dog Owner
Next is to identify the owner of the dog and their contact information. This is important, so they know what happened and how it happened. The owners are also needed in case you take legal action.
In situations where you cannot find the dog’s owner, there are different ways to identify the dog owner. This step is for your peace of mind and to ensure that this never happens again with that same dog.
Decide To Take Legal Action
Do not shrug off a dog bite incident. Keenly decide whether to take legal action or not. It is best to be sure of your decision, so you will not regret it later.
These incidents are the expertise of a dog bite lawyer. Find a dog bite attorney with the best services who is capable of protecting your legal rights.
Avoid Anxiety and Fear
Getting bit by a dog may cause you trauma and may cause you to fear getting near any dog in the future. It is best to give yourself time to recover to prevent this from happening.
Try not to be near any dog for at least three weeks to a month after the incident, and seek counseling.
Take Action After Being Bitten By a Dog
It’s important to assess the injury after getting bitten by a dog. Then seek immediate medical attention, identify the dog owner, and decide to take legal action. Furthermore, avoid anxiety and fear by giving yourself time to heal. These are essential steps to take after being bitten by a dog.
Be sure to establish a clear record of the bite and take steps to protect yourself from future difficulties. Make sure to continue to educate yourself on how to approach and interact with animals – safety first!
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