How to Perform First Aid for Animal Bites

Animal bites range from mild to severe. Following these precautions may prevent further injury or infection.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• depending on the severity of the wound, you may need the following (antibiotic ointment, soap, water source, cloth). You will always need Rubber gloves, as you will be in contact with body fluids.

1. For minor wounds. If the bite barely breaks the skin and there is no danger of rabies, treat it just as if it were a minor wound (this includes washing the wound thoroughly with soap and water, applying an antibiotic cream to prevent infection, and covering the bite with a clean bandage).

2. For deep wounds. If the animal bite creates a deep puncture of the skin or the skin is badly torn and bleeding, apply pressure with a clean, dry cloth to stop the bleeding and see your doctor to seek further treatment.

3. If the wound becomes infected, seek medical advice promptly, as you may need antibiotics. A doctor can prescribe them to you and you can pick them up at a local pharmacy.

4. If necessary, see your doctor to be tested for rabies virus.