Bitten by a dog? overcome with the following 5 first aid steps

Dog bites are a fairly common occurrence, and most victims are children between the ages of 5 and 9. As with most types of animal bites, dog bites can usually be treated with simple first aid at home to prevent the dog from spreading viruses and bacteria. Because basically animal saliva contains millions of bacteria that can cause infection.

What are the most common body parts for dogs to bite?

It is important to know the dog bite pattern. Dogs' front teeth are usually used to catch victims, while the other teeth pull at the surrounding skin when they start to bite. The result of the bite can be a hole in the skin such as a puncture wound, made by the dog's front teeth, and the presence of a cut in the skin that has been scratched.

In addition, for child victims, the neck and face area, especially the lips, nose and cheeks, are common areas of the body if a dog bites. Meanwhile, adults are more commonly bitten on body parts such as the hands, arms and legs.

First aid when bitten by a dog

If you, or someone you know, was bitten by a dog, you are likely to have a small bite that can be treated at home by following these steps:

Immediately clean the wound after being bitten. The trick, rinse with warm water for a few minutes with a clean cloth or cotton ball.
If the wound has not been bitten by the dog, hold it gently so that it bleeds, which will prevent bacteria from getting into the wound.
Give pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling.
After that, you can apply antibiotic ointment to the wound. Dry briefly, then wrap in a clean bandage or gauze.
Because there can be a risk of infection, the National Health Service also recommends seeking medical help, after you have been bitten by a dog

Characteristics of infection after being bitten by a dog

If you suspect that you are infected, get medical help immediately to the nearest clinic, health center or hospital. Sometimes an infected animal bite can lead to blood poisoning (sepsis), infection of the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis) or infection of the outer lining of the brain (meningitis). The following are body signs that indicate an infection:

Dog bites hurt more than the first time
The wound becomes red and swollen around the bite
Discharge or pus from the bite wound
Have a fever with a temperature of 38 ° C or more, and have chills

The characteristics of a dog willing to bite

Before being bitten by a dog, it is a good idea to be alert and watch for signs that the dog is about to bite. At first, the dog may give you a signal that it doesn't want to be disturbed. One of her movements includes licking her lips, yawning, and turning her head. Also pay attention to the following dog movements:

The dog will show its teeth while staring at you
The hair on the dog's back will rise to a stand
The dog's ears will move backwards against the head or forwards
The dog's legs will stiffen up

If you think a dog is going to bite you, it's best not to run, but stay calm. If you can, try to get something (usually a rock) between you and the dog. Position your body to stand straight with your legs together, and keep your arms in place while making fists that point toward the dog. Don't look the dog in the eye, as this will be interpreted as a sign that you are going to attack, so look down or at the other side of the dog.

Standing still, your dog will lose interest in biting, and you may be able to slowly back away.