Apr 26, 2022 · Bites from dogs and cats are among the most common types of animal bite wounds. The hand and fingers are the most common areas bitten, and they are most at risk for infection, which can cause significant functional impairments and disability.

Feb 7, 2020 · 7 steps to treating a dog bite. If a dog bites you, take these steps right away: Wash the wound. Use mild soap, and run warm tap water over it for five to 10 minutes. Slow the bleeding with a ...

May 16, 2021 · Dog and Cat Bites to the hand are common and are associated with secondary infections due to a large number of animal oral flora pathogens. Diagnosis is often delayed and is confirmed with a careful history and physical examination.

Mar 28, 2025 · Bites on the hands or feet carry a higher risk of infection. Certain infections from dog bites can be very serious and lead to complications. Without treatment, these infections can be...

Aug 16, 2018 · Here are the steps that should be taken if your dog bites your hand: Wash your wound with soap and water immediately, wrap it with some gauze or, in a pinch, a clean towel and head to the ER. Why the ER? Your primary care provider and even a typical “urgent care” facility aren’t equipped to handle the protocols for a dog bite.

Dec 15, 2024 · Dog bite treatment starts with basic first aid: stop the bleeding, clean the wound, and cover it with a clean bandage. Bites that are deep, bleeding heavily, or are on the face or hands require immediate medical care. More than 4.5 million dog bites are reported annually in the United States.

Why does my dog bite my hands (so much)? Your dog may be biting your hands due to any of the following reasons: to get your attention, to alleviate their pain from teething, due to a medical condition, or to express their excitement. You may have also reinforced the behavior in the past. In some cases, it can be a form of aggression.

Feb 3, 2025 · Dog bites to the hand require careful treatment to prevent infection and preserve function. A hand surgeon’s approach includes thorough irrigation, enlarging puncture wounds for proper cleaning, and leaving wounds open to heal by secondary intention.

Animal and Human Bites of the Hand. Bites are extremely common and can cause significant pain and other problems, especially when associated with an infection. Early recognition of warning signs and appropriate treatment are key in minimizing potential problems from the bite. When an animal bites, bacteria from its mouth can contaminate the wound.