Treating a Dog Bite Injury

How to Treat a Dog Bite Injury and File for Compensation

A dog bite can be emotionally traumatizing and can also cause severe physical injuries. If you or a loved one was bitten by a dog, you must address the injury immediately in order to minimize any risk of an infection. When it comes to minor dog bites, you might be able to treat the injury yourself using basic first aid. More severe bites will require medical treatment in a hospital. 

Below, our experienced dog bite attorneys will discuss basic first aid options following a dog bite. These suggestions are not meant to replace medical treatment. If you have suffered a dog bite, West Coast Trial Lawyers is always here to answer any questions you may have about dog bite claims and available damages.

To schedule a free consultation, please contact our 24/7 legal team by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our quick contact form.

First Aid

The severity and seriousness of a dog bite will determine what first aid option is best for you. If the bite did not break the skin, you can just wash the affected area with soap and warm water. It is also recommended to use antibacterial lotion on the wound as an additional precaution.  

On the other hand, if the bite did break, thoroughly wash the affected area using warm water and soap. Then, very gently apply pressure on the wound, which will release a small amount of blood. This will help to flush out any germs that may cause an infection. 

A bite that is already bleeding can be treated by applying a clean piece of cloth to the affected area and using light pressure to stop the bleeding. Again, please apply a generous amount of antibacterial lotion and use a sterile bandage to cover up the wound. 

Regardless of whether your bite was minor or severe, you must monitor it regularly to check for any signs of infection until the wound has healed completely. Signs to check for include redness, swelling, and tenderness. You should see a doctor immediately if your wound becomes painful, worsens in any way, or if you develop a fever.

Investigate the Dog’s Vaccination History

It’s crucial to find out whether that dog was inoculated against rabies. You should ask the dog owner for their dog’s vaccination history. Also, make sure to get the owner’s name and phone number.

If you were bitten by a stray or a dog that escaped its owner, check to see if there are any available witnesses who may recognize the dog or who may know where its owner lives. 

West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here to Help 

If you have sustained injuries as a result of a dog bite, our expert dog bite attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers can help you recover compensation for the losses you have suffered, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Contact us today by calling 213-927-3700 or filling out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with our experienced, caring, and compassionate legal team.