How to Treat a Dog Bite Wound

Unfortunately, dog bites are often much more severe than they look. In some cases, they can cause serious infection and even death. While some bites are unavoidable, learning how you can prevent a dog attack can be useful information in many situations. Here’s what to do and what steps you should take if you or a loved one were the victim of a dog bite.

Avoid Strange Dogs

Strange dogs who aren’t familiar with you (and who you aren’t familiar with) are more likely to bite than the family dog or a friend’s dog who you’ve spent time with. Avoid strange dogs and instruct your children to never approach a dog they do not know to pet it.

Let a Dog Approach You

If you do need to approach a dog, especially an unfamiliar one, crouch low to the ground in a non-threatening way. Allow the dog to approach you instead and never tower over the dog or move towards it quickly — this could cause the dog to become scared and subsequently aggressive.

Don’t Leave Children Alone With a Dog

Dog bites are much more dangerous for small children than adults, so it’s important to take as many measures as possible to keep children safe in the presence of a dog. Always supervise children who are playing with or near a dog and never leave children alone with a dog, even the family dog. While most of the time a family dog won’t bite, it only takes a moment for a dog to turn and become aggressive when you least expect it.

Avoid Approaching a Dog Who Is Taking Care of Puppies

If a mother dog is taking care of puppies or is nursing her pups, don’t approach her. Let children know not to approach her either and if needed, set up a bed for the dog and her litter in an area of the home that is easily gated off or is not used by the family. Mother dogs are easily angered and are protective of their puppies.

Were You Bitten by a Dog? Contact a Lawyer Today

Dog bites are painful, dangerous, and emotionally and physically scarring. At Mansell and Mansell, APC, we understand that victims of dog attacks have long roads ahead of them to heal physically and psychologically. We can help you recover damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and more. Call now for a consultation at (323) 466-4900.