Dog Bites & Tetanus
Along with dog bites comes the risk of a bacterial infection called tetanus. Although tetanus spores live in the soil and any dirty wound can contribute to this infection, dog bite can potentially cause tetanus as well if the wound becomes contaminated with filth or feces.
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What is Tetanus?
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Tetanus is a vaccine-preventable infection. Tetanus is a vaccine-preventable infection caused by a bacterial infection termed Clostridium tetani. It isn't contagious, but tiny particles can get into open wounds and begin to grow and fester into active bacteria. Now, at this point, being widely awake, Clostridium tetani begin producing toxins in the body causing the tetanus infection.
Symptoms of Tetanus
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Keep in mind, the most common tetanus symptoms are painful muscle spasms that usually worsen as time progresses. These spasms may occur around the mouth (lockjaw), around the throat (making swallowing difficult), near chest muscle (inhibiting breathing) and in the neck, back, legs and arms.
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Treatment for Tetanus
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Some treatment options include: antibiotics such as penicillin G or tetracycline, muscle relaxants and neuromuscular blocking agents.Staying up to date on your immunization records can prevent you from getting tetanus.
Preventing Dog Bites
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According to the CDC, 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year. Don't approach unfamiliar dogs, don't run from a dog or scream directly in its face, report stray dogs, allow a dog to sniff you before petting, play with dogs only under adult supervision (children) and don't disturb them while they are eating.
Providing Proper Care for Your Pets
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Remember to keep your dog healthy. Regular examinations and vaccinations are essential against tetanus, rabies and other diseases.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit medical syringe and ampoule on a white background. image by Petr Gnuskin from Fotolia.com dogs parade image by apeschi from Fotolia.com
