A male German shepherd bites a man by the hand.
Dogs can add a lot of value into our lives. But it’s important to note that even the sweetest pup can turn vicious at a moment’s notice.
Each year, dogs bite an estimated 4.5 million people, with young children among the most susceptible victims.
And though the hope is that you’ll never need to practice dog bite treatment techniques firsthand, knowing what to do can save your life.
Here’s what you need to know about treating dog bites.
Care For The Dog Bite at Home
The good news is that most dog bites aren’t terribly hard to deal with. In fact, you should be able to deal with most non-serious bites at home.
Here are a few steps you’ll want to take.
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Get to a Safe Location
Remove yourself from the situation as soon as possible. Though it’s entirely possible that the dog bit you out of fear and is as shaken up as you, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Find a safe, sterile location with medical supplies like a first aid kit.
Take Photos of The Dog Bite
Your first instinct likely isn’t to take a photo of your newfound injury. And, in all honesty, that makes sense.
But snapping a quick photo of the injury can help doctors if you require medical attention and can also serve as evidence if you decide to pursue legal action.
Sterilize The Wound
If you’re bleeding, apply pressure to the wound. When the bleeding subsides, take a warm, clean washcloth and dab the wound.
Now, with the area cleared, rinse the wound with slightly cold water and soap.
Find an adhesive bandage or a bandage wrap and cover the wound. This will keep the site of the dog bite clear and prevent infection.
Seek Medical Treatment if Necessary
Simply taking care of the wound at home may not be enough. In extreme circumstances, you may need to go to the hospital and have the bite examined by a professional.
Most doctors can stitch you up and send you on your way in an hour or less.
Keep your wound bandaged, and look out for swelling and inflammation, as these are common signs of an infection.
Contact a Lawyer
A dog bite can have a very real effect on your life.
Aside from the immense physical pain you’ve experienced, you may develop a sudden fear of going near dogs.
Under Michigan law, the owner is responsible for the attack no matter what. It doesn’t matter if this is the first bite or one of several instances where the dog went off, Michigan law dictates the owner is at fault.
Before heading to court, make an effort to work with the owner. If they become accusatory or difficult to work with, don’t hesitate to contact a lawyer, as you may be entitled to fair compensation.
Your Guide to Dog Bite Treatment
However severe the bite may be, proper dog bite treatment is a must. Keeping the injury clean, wrapped, and safe can prevent further damage and help you heal faster.
If you’ve been the victim of a dog bite, know that you have rights under Michigan law. Get in touch today and let our legal experts help you get the justice you deserve.
