Dogs are naturally social creatures, and interacting with other dogs forms a crucial part of their socialization process. However, it’s also a fact that these interactions can sometimes lead to altercations, and your dog could potentially get bitten.

As dog owners, it is our responsibility to know what to do if your dog was bit by another dog and understand the importance of swift, professional veterinary care.

Potential health risks of a dog bite

Dog bites can be more serious than they initially seem. Because of the way dogs fight, they tend to both tear and crush tissues, which can cause deeper muscle and blood vessel damage than what can be initially seen on the surface.

Beyond the visible wound, a bite can also lead to complications such as infections, disease transmission, or even psychological trauma for your pet. Bacteria in a dog’s mouth can rapidly infect a bite wound, leading to dangerous conditions like cellulitis or sepsis. Moreover, if the attacking dog is not up-to-date on vaccinations, diseases like rabies could be a concern.

If your dog was bitten by another dog, acting quickly to safeguard your pet is crucial. Read the steps of what to do if your dog was bitten and seek immediate care at VEG ER for Pets.

What to do if your dog was bitten by another dog

Dog bite injuries can run the gamut from minor to life-threatening. Either way, you'll need to act fast following the steps below and seek immediate vet care.

Step -by-step response to dog bites on another dog

1. Stay calm

   Try your best not to panic. Remaining calm helps your pet feel safer and allows you to assess the situation more clearly without missing important details.

   
   

2. Control the situation

   Focus on getting your dog to safety.  If possible, isolate your dog from the other dog to prevent further injuries and stress. If dogs are still interacting, do not use your hands to separate the dogs, as you could get injured in the process. Here's where a whistle, a loud voice, or a hand clap can help. If there's a leash attached to your dog, gently lead them away from the other dog and off to a quiet place where you can examine your pet.

   
   

3. Check for serious injury

   Carefully examine your dog for signs of serious injury, including:

   • Deep wounds

   • Difficulty breathing

   • Excessive bleeding

   • Signs of shock such as pale gums or a rapid heart rate.

   
   

   Avoid touching the wound directly to reduce the risk of contamination or infection.

   
   

4. Do not attempt in-home treatment

   Never apply topical products, antibiotic creams, or give any over-the-counter human medications.  Instead, you can try to gently clean the area around the wound with warm water and a clean cloth if your dog allows it, while preparing to seek veterinary care.

   
   

5. Call VEG ER for Pets emergency dog hospital

   Dog bites can quickly become medical emergencies, even when wounds appear minor. All possible dog bite wounds should be evaluated by a competent veterinarian, as some injuries may be more serious than they initially appear.

   
   

   VEG is open 24/7 for emergencies concerning all pets—walk in anytime. Our emergency vets are trained to handle dog bites and will triage and prioritize your dog's situation immediately.

If your dog was bit, bring them to VEG ER for Pets, open 24/7. Our vet med professionals are here to provide immediate triage to your dog, and you can stay with your pet the entire time.

Preventive measures to protect your dog from future bites

Preventing future incidents is as crucial as addressing the current one. You can reduce the risk of your dog being bitten by:

1. Ensuring your dog is properly socialized. Whether on dog walks or at the dog park, observe how your pup interacts with others. If your dog seems apprehensive or anxious around other dogs, or if they become aggressive, time with a behavioral therapist may help.

2. Carefully supervising their interactions with other dogs. You can't control the behavior of other dogs but you can keep an eye on yours and correct behavioral issues as they arise. Stay nearby instead of watching from afar. When at an off-leash dog park, always ensure a collar remains on your dog in case you have to hook the leash on quickly, and carefully guide your dog away from a potentially dangerous situation.

3. Keeping them on-leash in public places. It's tempting to let your dog run free in wide open spaces. But taking your dog off-leash at the park or during a hike is never a good idea, especially if there are other dogs present. Read our blog on dog park safety tips for more helpful information.

Remember, even the most well-behaved dog can get into an altercation, and being prepared is the best way to protect your pet. Knowledge is the key to being a responsible dog owner, and understanding what to do if your dog is bitten can potentially save your pet’s life.

Always try to stay calm and act quickly in the event of a dog bite. Immediate contact with a veterinary professional like those at VEG ER for Pets is crucial to ensure your dog receives the best care. Your pet’s health and safety are our utmost priorities. For more information please don’t hesitate to call one of our locations.

Dog was bitten? Call a VEG vet professional immediately

It’s crucial to contact a veterinary professional at VEG immediately after your dog was bit by another dog, even if the injury seems minor. Our ER veterinarian can properly clean and treat the wound, prescribe necessary antibiotics, and monitor your dog for potential complications.

When it comes to your pet’s health, choosing the right veterinary service is paramount. VEG ER for Pets is a trusted name in pet health, offering comprehensive emergency veterinary services. With a commitment to providing compassionate, high-quality care, VEG is ready to assist your pet in their time of need.