Study Guide: Understanding and Responding to Dog Bites

Quiz: Test Your Knowledge

Instructions: Answer the following ten questions in 2-3 complete sentences each, based on the provided source material.

1. What are the six immediate physical symptoms that can appear in the area of a dog bite?
2. Beyond superficial wounds, what are the two primary types of infection that pose a significant risk after a dog bite?
3. Describe the potential long-term physical and psychological damages that can result from a severe dog bite.
4. Outline the four crucial first-aid steps that should be taken immediately after a dog bite occurs.
5. Under what specific circumstances is antibiotic treatment most likely to be prescribed by a doctor following a dog bite?
6. When assessing the risk of rabies, what is the standard procedure for a known dog that has bitten someone?
7. List at least four distinct behavioral or physical symptoms that a dog infected with rabies might display.
8. Explain the two components of Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) for rabies and the function of each component.
9. What are the key signs that indicate a dog bite wound has become infected, and when do these symptoms typically appear?
10. According to the text, what is the recommended way to behave if a dog begins to attack?

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Answer Key

1. The six immediate physical symptoms that can appear at the site of a dog bite are: pain and redness, swelling, bleeding, bruising from tissue crushing, direct tissue damage such as tears or punctures, and sensory loss like numbness or tingling if nerves are damaged.
2. The two primary infection risks are bacterial infections and tetanus. Bacterial infections occur when bacteria from the dog’s mouth enter the wound, while tetanus is caused by Clostridium tetani spores from soil or animal feces entering a deep or dirty wound.
3. Long-term physical damage can include permanent functional loss, disability, restricted joint mobility, and aesthetic issues like scars or deformities. Psychologically, a victim may develop a specific fear of dogs (kynophobia) or, in more severe cases, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) characterized by anxiety, panic attacks, and nightmares.
4. The four first-aid steps are: thoroughly wash the wound with plenty of soap and running water for at least 5-10 minutes; stop any bleeding by applying direct pressure with a clean cloth; apply a suitable antiseptic solution; and cover the wound with a sterile bandage.
5. Antibiotics are particularly important for deep and extensive wounds, bites near joints or bones, bites on hands or feet, and for individuals with weakened immune systems (e.g., those with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy).
6. If a known dog bites someone, it should be placed under the observation of a veterinarian for 10 days. If the dog shows no signs of rabies (like behavioral changes, paralysis, or hydrophobia) during this period, the risk is considered low.
7. Symptoms of a rabid dog include behavioral changes (sudden aggression or unusual tameness), excessive salivation or a foaming mouth, hydrophobia (fear of water), paralysis (often starting in the hind legs), making strange sounds, and sensitivity to light and sound.
8. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) consists of Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG) and the rabies vaccine. RIG is injected into and around the wound to provide immediate, passive immunity, while the rabies vaccine, given in a series of doses (typically five), stimulates the body to produce its own antibodies for long-term, active immunity.
9. Signs of an infected dog bite wound include severe pain, increased redness and swelling, a rise in temperature around the wound, and a foul-smelling pus discharge. These symptoms typically appear within the first 24-48 hours after the bite.
10. If a dog attacks, one should try to remain motionless instead of running. A person should use their arms as a barrier to protect their head and neck. If they fall to the ground, they should curl into a fetal position to protect their head and neck and remain still.