There’s always a risk of infections occurring with dog bites if you’ve been attacked by a dog in Louisiana. 10 to 15 percent of dog bites lead to an infection. There’s a higher risk of infection if the bite occurs on the hands or fingers. The bites can lead to staph infections, as well as strep infections. Some of the common signs associated with these types of infections include fevers, oozing blisters, and joint swelling.
What to do if you suffer a dog bite
If you suffer a dog bite, immediately clean out the wound using a mild soap. Use a dry cloth to slow the bleeding. You can also apply over-the-counter antibiotic cream if there are signs of an infection.
Severe dog bites, or a bite that won’t stop bleeding, need medical attention. Immediately visit the nearest emergency wound to obtain medical treatment. Bandage the wound and apply pressure as you wait to be seen to limit the bleeding. The bandage should be changed every few hours to keep the area clean.
A doctor may prescribe antibiotics, apply antibiotic ointment, and recommend a booster if the affected area is dirty. Stitches may also be necessary if the punctured area is deep and won’t heal on its own. It’s also important to be informed of when you had your last tetanus shot to ensure you’ve been vaccinated. The tetanus immunization should last about 10 years.
Who can you contact for legal assistance?
If you’ve suffered a dog bite, you can hire an attorney to pursue compensation for your injuries. A legal professional might review the case’s details and evidence while determining if the dog owner was at fault. The legal professional could inform you of your rights and will take the necessary action to attempt to make the outcome work in your favor.
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