Dog Bite Treatment
Medical Author: Benjamin C. Wedro, MD,
FACEP, FAAEM
Medical Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
How many dog bites occur?
Almost 75 million dogs live in the United States, and since many victims of
dog bites don't seek medical care or report the attack, it may be that the U.S.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s estimate of 4.5 million dog
bites each year in the U.S. may be too low. Approximately 880,000 dog bite
victims seek emergency medical care at hospitals in the U.S. every year.
Dogs have rounded teeth, and it is the pressure exerted by their jaws that
can cause significant damage to the tissues under the skin, including bones,
muscles, tendons, blood vessels, and nerves.
More than 30,000 victims of dog bites undergo reconstructive surgery each
year, and 15-20 people die of dog bites yearly.
Who is at risk for a dog bite?
The risk of being bitten by a dog increases if thee is a dog in the home; the
more dogs there are, the greater the risk. Men are more frequent victims than
women (who are bitten by cats more often).
Children between the ages of 5 and 9 are more likely to be bitten by a dog
than other age groups. Children are also more likely to present for medical
attention.
What should I do if someone is bitten by a dog?
The dog bite victim needs to be taken to a safe place away from the assailant
dog to prevent further attack and injury. Since dog bites can cause significant
damage beneath the skin, a type of injury that cannot always easily be
appreciated, medical care should be accessed by a health care practitioner.
Wounds should be kept elevated and, if possible, washing the wound with tap
water may be attempted.
Information should be obtained from the dog's owner about the dogs
rabies immunization status, but if this is not possible, hospital,
animal control centers, or law enforcement
personnel will help gather any required information.
Next: When should I call the doctor for a dog bite? »
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