Animal bites can happen unexpectedly to anyone. These bites should be immediately examined by a medical professional to prevent fatal health complications. Dr. Daniel Benhuri provides animal bites treatment and wound care for families in Beverly Hills, California.
Types of Animal Bites
Most animal bites come from either cats, dogs or wild animals. Around half of cat bites lead to infection from small puncture wounds in the skin. Approximately 10% of dog bites lead to an infection. Wild animals mostly like to bite include bats, foxes, wild dogs and raccoons; and these cause the greatest potential for contracting rabies.
Infection Symptoms of Animal Bites
Symptoms of infection with animal bites may include pain, swelling, pus, fever and red streaks. Seek emergency care if you experience breathing difficulties, muscle weakness or fatigue. Cat bites can create the highest risk for infection. If you receive a minor wound, clean the area thoroughly with soap and water and apply a fresh bandage. For deep or infected wounds, apply pressure to stop the bleeding and then clean with soap and water before seeking medical attention.
You can prevent animal bites and complications by steering yourself and children away from unknown animals. Vaccinate household pets against rabies and spay or neuter to prevent aggression. Make sure you are up-to-date on your tetanus booster vaccination. Wear boots and long pants in wooded areas or wherever snakes may be present.
Animal Bites Treatment
Several options are available for animal bites treatment. You may need to closely monitor the area for a short period of time for signs of infection. Animal bites treatment for an infection may involve antibiotics or stitches for large wounds. You may also need a tetanus booster shot or rabies treatment. Your primary care doctor may give you specific instructions for wound care and can explain the benefits and risks of available treatment options.
Beverly Hills Animal Bites Treatment and Wound Care
Dr. Daniel Benhuri can recommend the best animal bites treatment plan for your unique circumstances. New patients are welcome with same day appointments. If you need urgent care, evening and weekend hours are available for convenient scheduling. Request an appointment today.