>>Overview
Domestic pets cause more bites
Dogs more likely to bite, cats more infectious
Risk of rabies with non-immunized pets / stray / wild animals
Raccoons, skunks, foxes, bats too carry rabies
>>Symptoms
Skin break
Bruise / puncture
Cuts
Bleeding
Swelling and redness of the area
Oozing of fluid
>>Treatment
Calm the affected person
Wash hands before attending to wound
Wash wound with soap & running water
Apply antibiotic ointment
Dress using sterile bandage
After first aid, medical treatment must be sought quickly
Suturing may be required
Tetanus booster / antibiotics required
Treatment depends on type / location of wound
>>Prevention
Avoid keeping wild animals as pets
Choose a pet that is friendly to children
Train the pet to obey commands
Vaccinate your pet
When children are around, pets supervision is required
Avoid leaving infants alone with pets