How to Treat Bleeding From an Animal Bite

The way you treat the bleeding from the bite of an animal will vary depending on the size of the bite and the amount of bleeding. In most cases, you should use basic first aid and apply pressure to stop or slow the blood loss.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Put on rubber gloves to protect yourself from blood-borne disease. Your first-aid kit should include several pairs, which you can purchase from a local drug store.

2. Tie on a tourniquet if victim is experiencing heavy blood loss. Use a length of elastic from a first-aid kit, a belt or shoelace to tie a tourniquet several inches above the bite. Remove the tourniquet every 15 minutes for just a few moments so blood can flow to the rest of the affected area.

3. Apply pressure to the animal bite to staunch the flow of blood. Use a clean cloth or towel, place it over the bite and push firmly. Replace the cloth with a fresh one if it becomes soaked with blood.

4. Lift the bleeding area high if it's a limb. This will also help reduce the blood loss and allow you to easily stop it altogether.

5. Put a bandage on the animal bite. Make sure you clean the wound with soap and water first, and then place a sterile bandage on it to prevent blood seepage and dirt from getting into the wound.

Tips & Warnings

• If the animal that bit was wild or unhealthy, make sure the victim gets medical help immediately. If possible, contain the animal so doctors can examine it later.

Who Can Help:

• Overweight? Lose 30+ lbs without pills or diets- guaranteed
• Arthroscopic Alternative to Spine Surgery- For Back & Neck - Free MRI Review by our Doctors. Get your life back!
• Do you suffer from back pain? Learn more about our Medicare approved back support system. Medicare covers 85% of the cost.