If you experience an animal bite from a domestic or wild animal, your primary first aid concern is to address bleeding and to keep an eye out for signs of infection. But you also need to be aware of the potential for rabies transmission if the animal is behaving strangely or bites unprovoked.
For a minor wound from an animal bite:
- Wash the wound with soap and running water.
- Control bleeding by applying direct pressure.
- Cover the wounded area with a sterile dressing.
You may also consider applying an antibiotic ointment if there’s no allergy, depending on state and local regulations.
Check out the HSI Emergency Care blog for additional information about providing first aid for animal bites.
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