From the Guidelines
A dog bite wound may not stop bleeding due to several factors, and it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if the bleeding persists despite pressure. Dog bites often cause puncture wounds that can damage blood vessels and create jagged tears that don't close easily. The bacteria and enzymes present in a dog's mouth can also interfere with normal blood clotting, exacerbating the bleeding issue 1. To manage bleeding, it is recommended to apply firm pressure with a clean cloth for 15 minutes, elevate the wound if possible, and avoid removing the cloth if it becomes soaked (add another layer instead).
For minor wounds that eventually stop bleeding, cleaning thoroughly with soap and water, applying an antibiotic ointment like Neosporin, and covering with a sterile bandage can help prevent infection. However, professional medical care is essential for wounds that won't stop bleeding, deep punctures, facial injuries, or if signs of infection like increasing redness, swelling, or pus are noticed. Dog bites carry a high risk of infection and may require antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) for 3-7 days, tetanus prophylaxis, or possibly rabies prevention measures depending on the circumstances 1.
Some key points to consider in managing dog bite wounds include:
- The risk of infection, which can be as high as 30-50% for cat bites and 5-25% for dog bites 1
- The variety of bacteria that can be present in the wound, including Pasteurella species, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus, among others 1
- The importance of prompt medical attention for severe or non-healing wounds to prevent complications such as abscesses or sepsis 1
- The potential need for antibiotics, tetanus prophylaxis, or rabies prevention, depending on the specifics of the bite and the patient's health status 1
From the Research
Dog Bite Wounds and Bleeding
- Dog bite wounds can be challenging to manage, and bleeding is a common issue [(2,3,4,5,6)].
- The complexity of dog bite wounds is due to the presence of mixed aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, which can lead to infection and delayed healing [(2,3,4)].
- Infections caused by dog bites can be severe, especially in areas with poor blood circulation, such as the hands [(4,6)].
Factors Affecting Bleeding in Dog Bite Wounds
- The location of the bite wound is a significant factor in determining the risk of bleeding and infection [(3,4,6)].
- Bites to the hands, face, and neck are more likely to require immediate attention and have a higher risk of complications [(3,4,5,6)].
- The type of bacteria present in the wound can also affect the bleeding and healing process [(2,3,4)].
Management of Dog Bite Wounds
- Proper wound management, including cleaning, irrigation, and debridement, is essential to prevent infection and promote healing [(3,4,5)].
- Antibiotic prophylaxis may be necessary to prevent infection, especially in high-risk cases [(3,6)].
- Tetanus vaccination and rabies postexposure prophylaxis should be evaluated for each patient [(3,5)].