If a wild, stray, or domesticated animal bites or scratches your pet, you need to act fast to prevent infection, blood loss, and the transmission of dangerous diseases. Knowing what to do in the event of a medical emergency with your pet can help you remain calm in the moment and take the steps necessary to save your pet’s life. Here’s a look at what to do if your pet is bitten by another animal:
Remove Your Pet from the Area
Remove your pet from the area immediately, even if the other animal has already run away. You don’t want to take the risk that the animal will return and attack again. Get your pet to a safe, clean, enclosed area to assess his wounds.
Stop the Bleeding and/or Disinfect the Wound
If your pet’s wound is bleeding excessively, you should try to stop the bleeding before transporting him to the veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital. Flush out the wound with clean water or saline solution, and then use a clean, dry cloth or gauze to apply pressure to the wound. This will stabilize your pet for transport to the veterinarian’s office.
Visit Your Veterinarian
All animal bites should be tended to by a veterinarian, as they are so susceptible to infection. Your veterinarian can also provide any vaccinations your pet may need to prevent the transmission of dangerous diseases like rabies. Follow all after-care advice your veterinarian gives you.
Call Animal Control
If you don’t know who the owner of the other animal is that bit your dog, or if the animal was a stray and is still out wandering the streets, you should call your local animal control. Give them information about where and when the attack occurred, what the animal looked like, if it was wearing a collar, and if you have ever seen it before. You may need to provide your veterinarian’s contact information as well.
In addition to treating your pet’s wound at home, please take him to an animal hospital or emergency veterinary clinic as soon as possible for professional care.