When we discover that our dog has unfortunately been bitten by another dog, it is important to isolate it immediately and check the wound. Appropriate treatment measures should be taken based on the severity of the injury. Generally, if the dog has been regularly vaccinated, it is sufficient to clean the wound carefully. However, if the dog has not been vaccinated against rabies, or if the vaccine’s validity has expired, it is recommended to take it to the veterinary hospital for vaccination as soon as possible.
Calming the Dog’s Emotions
When a dog is bitten by another dog, it may feel extremely panicked or in pain. To better proceed with subsequent treatment, it is essential to calm the dog first. You can try to soothe the dog with a calm voice and gentle movements to prevent it from becoming overly agitated or struggling.
Cleaning the Wound
The second step is to clean the wound. Gently rinse the dog’s wound with saline solution to remove impurities and bacteria. Then, disinfect the wound with cotton soaked in povidone-iodine and apply some antibiotic ointment. Additionally, to prevent the dog from licking the wound, it may be necessary to fit it with an Elizabethan collar.
When handling the dog’s wound, avoid using strong irritants like alcohol for cleaning, as this can exacerbate the pain. If the dog’s wound is bleeding slightly, you can gently press the bleeding point with gauze or a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. If the wound is severe, with continuous bleeding or a large amount of blood loss, it is advisable to take the dog to the vet for suturing as soon as possible.
Original article by KPTer, if reproduced, please cite the source: https://www.kaipet.com/en/dog-bitten-dog-treatment-methods-precautions
Comments(2)
This is so helpful! I always wonder, besides heavy bleeding, what are the crucial signs a dog bite needs immediate vet care?
@CriticX：Thank you for your question! Beyond heavy bleeding, seek immediate vet care for deep puncture wounds, noticeable lameness, or if the bite is on sensitive areas like the head, neck, or joints. It’s always best to have a vet assess any bite wound thoroughly to ensure proper treatment and prevent complications.