What To Do if Your Dog Was Bit by Another Dog

It’s every pet owner’s nightmare—one moment, your dog is enjoying a walk or a playdate, and the next, a scuffle breaks out, resulting in a bite wound. If your dog was bit by another dog, knowing what steps to take next is crucial. Even minor-looking bites can lead to infections, pain, and complications. In this blog, we’ll discuss what to do after a bite occurs, potential complications, and why prompt veterinary care is essential. If your dog has been bitten, contact Happy Tails Emergency Veterinary Clinic in Greensboro, NC, at (336) 288-2688 today.

Assessing Your Dog’s Condition After a Bite

When a dog was bit by another dog, your first step should be assessing the severity of the injury. Not all dog bites appear serious at first glance, but even a small puncture wound can lead to complications. Here’s what to check for:

• Visible Wounds: Examine your dog’s fur and skin to locate any puncture wounds, lacerations, or bruising.
• Bleeding: If there is bleeding, note whether it is minor or excessive.
• Swelling or Redness: Bites can quickly become inflamed due to bacteria from the other dog’s mouth.
• Pain Sensitivity: If your dog yelps, flinches, or reacts aggressively when touched, the injury may be more severe than it appears.
• Limping or Weakness: A dog that was bit by another dog may experience mobility issues, especially if bitten on the legs or joints.

Immediate First Aid for a Dog Bite

While veterinary care is essential, providing first aid immediately after your dog was bit by another dog can help prevent complications. Here’s what you can do:

1. Apply gentle pressure using a clean cloth or gauze. If the wound is actively bleeding, elevate the area if possible.
2. If the wound is minor, rinse it gently with lukewarm water to remove debris.
3. Do not apply hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or ointments, as these can irritate the wound.
4. Stress can worsen their condition. Speak in a soothing voice and limit movement to avoid aggravating the injury.
5. Weakness, rapid breathing, or pale gums can indicate shock, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

Once you have performed basic first aid, call (336) 288-2688 and bring your dog to Happy Tails Emergency Veterinary Clinic for a thorough examination.

The Risk of Infection and Other Complications

Even if a bite wound looks small, a dog that was bit by another dog is at risk for serious infections and complications. Bacteria from the biting dog’s mouth can enter the wound, leading to infections such as:

• Abscesses: Pus-filled swellings that develop from untreated infections.
• Cellulitis: A spreading bacterial infection that causes redness, swelling, and pain.
• Sepsis: A life-threatening systemic infection that can occur if bacteria enter the bloodstream.
• Tetanus: Though rare in dogs, deep puncture wounds can introduce this serious bacterial infection.

Signs of Infection to Watch For

Monitor your dog closely for signs of infection, which may include:

• Increased swelling, redness, or warmth around the bite wound
• Pus or foul-smelling discharge
• Lethargy or decreased appetite
• Fever or shivering
• Excessive licking or biting at the wound

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Happy Tails Emergency Veterinary Clinic immediately at (336) 288-2688.

How Veterinary Professionals Treat Dog Bite Injuries

When a dog was bit by another dog, professional veterinary treatment is the best way to prevent complications. At Happy Tails Emergency Veterinary Clinic, our team will:

• Perform a Thorough Examination – We check for underlying tissue damage, broken bones, or hidden punctures.
• Clean and Disinfect the Wound – Proper wound flushing removes bacteria and debris.
• Prescribe Antibiotics if Needed – If there is a risk of infection, antibiotics may be necessary.
• Provide Pain Management – Depending on the severity, pain relief medications may be prescribed.
• Suture or Leave Wounds Open – Some wounds may require stitches, while others heal better when left open to drain.
• Recommend Follow-Up Care – Monitoring and wound care at home are essential for proper healing.

Preventing Future Dog Bite Incidents

No one wants to experience the stress of a dog bite incident again. While some situations are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Always monitor playtime between dogs, especially if they are unfamiliar with each other.
• Growling, stiff body posture, and prolonged staring can indicate a potential attack.
• Keeping your dog on a leash helps prevent unexpected encounters with aggressive dogs.
• Well-socialized dogs are less likely to react aggressively in stressful situations.
• Dog parks and overcrowded spaces can sometimes increase the chances of aggressive encounters.

A dog bite can be a traumatic experience, but acting quickly ensures your pet gets the care they need. Even if the wound seems minor, a professional veterinary evaluation is essential to prevent infections and long-term complications. If your dog was bit by another dog, don’t wait—contact Happy Tails Emergency Veterinary Clinic in Greensboro, NC, at (336) 288-2688 for expert care and peace of mind.