2. When to Seek Medical Help: The Non-Negotiable Next Step

After performing initial first aid, seeking a professional medical evaluation is mandatory for every dog bite. Many of the most serious risks associated with a bite are invisible to the naked eye and cannot be managed at home. A doctor must assess the injury for the following reasons:

• Infection Risk: A dog’s mouth contains a multitude of bacteria that can cause severe infections when introduced into a wound. A doctor needs to assess the bite and look for early signs of infection—which typically appear within 24 to 48 hours—including increased swelling, worsening pain, redness, and warmth around the area.
• Tetanus Risk: Tetanus is a severe and potentially fatal disease caused by bacteria commonly found in soil and animal waste. These bacteria can enter the body through deep puncture wounds. A doctor must check your vaccination history and administer a tetanus booster shot if your last one was more than five years ago. This is not something you can assess at home, making a doctor’s evaluation essential.
• Hidden Damage: A bite can cause significant damage beneath the skin to muscles, tendons, nerves, and even bones. This is especially true for bites on the hands, face, or near joints. Only a medical professional using diagnostic tools can assess the full extent of the injury and prevent potential long-term complications, such as permanent loss of function.
• Rabies Risk: Rabies is a fatal viral disease transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly via a bite. A doctor will assess the risk based on the circumstances of the bite (e.g., if the dog was a stray or its vaccination status is unknown) and decide if protective treatment is necessary.

Knowing these potential dangers underscores why it is so important to remain vigilant even after you’ve seen a doctor.