Why Dog Bites Happen
Even well-trained dogs can lash out due to fear, overstimulation, resource guarding, or miscommunication. Dog bites often occur:
- In off-leash environments like dog parks
- During rough play that escalates
- When one dog feels cornered or threatened
- Around food, toys, or other dogs
Recognizing canine body language, such as stiff posture, growling, or avoidance, can prevent conflicts before they escalate.
Immediate Steps to Take If Your Dog Is Bitten
1. Safety First
Separate the dogs carefully without putting yourself at risk. Use a loud noise, water, or barrier if necessary. Do not put your hands or body between two fighting dogs.
2. Check for Visible Injuries
Look for bleeding, swelling, or puncture wounds. Be gentle, as your dog may be in pain and react defensively. By speaking calmly with slow movements, your dog is more likely to allow you to inspect them.
3. Exchange Information
If possible, get contact information from the other dog’s owner. You will want to get the vaccination history (especially rabies) for the dog involved in the incident.
4. Contact a Vet for Emergency Care
Dog bite injuries can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear. Even small wounds can harbor bacteria and develop infections or abscesses within days.
Dog Bite Wound Treatment at Veterinary Hospitals
Dog bites are considered puncture wounds and are highly susceptible to infection. Other risks include muscle or nerve damage, internal bleeding, and tearing beneath the skin (which may not be visible!). A veterinary hospital that provides emergency pet care will be able to evaluate and treat bite wounds. The veterinarian will assess the extent of the injury for damage and possible complications.
Depending on the severity of the dog bite, your pet may need:
- Wound cleaning and flushing
- Stitches
- X-rays to rule out bone injury
- Antibiotics and pain management
- Follow-up wound care or drains to prevent infection
In serious cases, the vet may recommend sedation to reduce pain during treatment or to properly explore deeper tissue damage.
What to Watch for After Treatment
Even after initial care, continue to monitor your dog for swelling or pus near any wounds or potential signs of infection like fever, lethargy, or decreased appetite. Always return to the veterinarian for follow-up care of your dog’s bite wound if any symptoms worsen.
There are steps you can take to try to avoid future incidents. Avoid high-intensity play with unfamiliar dogs. Recognize and respect dog’s body language cues. Keep your dog leashed in unpredictable situations. Socialize your dog gradually and under supervision.
Veterinary Treatment for Dog Bites in Colorado Springs, CO
A dog-on-dog bite should be treated as a medical emergency. Getting treatment right away avoids infections, pain, and long-term damage. Airway Veterinary Hospital has pet emergency care services for dogs in Colorado Springs, CO and nearby areas like Cimarron Hills. If your dog has been bitten, contact us so that your pet can heal safely.
