Pet bites are serious business, says K-State veterinarian
When a dog or cat bites, an infection can follow.
“Wounds that are most likely to become infected are those on the face and hands or when people wait more than eight hours before seeking medical attention,” said Dr. Kate Stenske, a clinical assistant professor at Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “If you are bitten, first wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water, and then call your physician right away.” (Watch a short video with Dr. Kate Stenske)
Stenske said that bite wounds can become infected because dogs and cats both harbor a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria in their mouths. Bites are an ideal way for bacteria to be transmitted, she said, because teeth damage tissue, making it more prone to infection.
Bites are a public health concern, she said. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, more than 4.7 million people in the United States are bitten by a dog each year. Most dog bites, Stenske said, are from dogs owned by the victim’s family, friends or neighbors.
Stenske said it’s important to understand that any dog can bite, even cute, friendly dogs you have known for years.
To minimize the risk, she said it helps to recognize subtle signs of fear, nervousness or aggression in a dog. It also helps to neuter your dog or cat, train and socialize them and use a leash when outside. When it comes to strange dogs, Stenske said, it’s best to never approach them. If a strange dog approaches you, she said veterinarians advise children to “stand still like a tree,” or if on the ground to “curl up like a rock.”