Animal Bites Treated in Laredo, TX
Cute and furry animals can be irresistible, especially to children. However, wild animals should always be avoided because they are unpredictable and can bite without warning—even those that seem friendly, healthy and safe. What’s more, some household pets carry diseases and can transmit infections, such as tetanus and rabies, through broken skin.
As such, all animal bites require prompt treatment. Whether you were nipped by your family dog while playing or you were bitten by an aggressive raccoon in the wild, it is important to take steps to treat the wound and prevent infection. For prompt and effective care for a non-life-threatening animal bite, you can come to VitalMed Urgent Care in Laredo, Texas.
Home vs. Professional Treatment
It is important to know when and where to seek treatment for an animal bite. If the wound is bleeding uncontrollably or continues to bleed after you apply firm and direct pressure with a clean cloth for more than 10 minutes, you should go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Otherwise, you should seek professional medical attention right away if:
- You were bitten by a wild animal
- You were bitten by a domesticated animal that is unknown to you
- The bite created a deep puncture wound
- The bite tore your skin
- Swelling, redness or severe pain develops around the injury site
- There is dirt or other foreign material in the wound
- You have not received a tetanus booster within the last 10 years
- You have questions about rabies
On the other hand, if the wound is relatively minor and not the result of a wild animal bite or unknown domesticated animal bite, you may be able to safely care for it at home by:
- Thoroughly washing the wound with soap and warm water
- Patting it dry with a clean towel
- Gently applying an over-the-counter antibiotic cream or ointment
- Covering the wound with a sterile bandage
- Watching for signs of infection, such as swelling, redness and pain around the wound, and seeking medical attention if necessary
If you have questions or need non-emergency treatment for an animal bite, contact or visit VitalMed Urgent Care in Laredo, TX, today.
