Thursday, June 25, 2009

Tips on How to Treat Animal Bites

Some animals may cause us harm and put us in danger. For reasons unknown to us, some animals may attack us even without provocation. We will never know when they will strike. If you get bitten by an animal, remember the following:

Dog bites. Dogs are considered to be man’s best friend but can also be our worst enemy because their bite can kill us. What to do when you get bitten by a dog?

1.Wash right away the affected area with soap and clean water.
2.Never put anything on it.
3.Observe the behavior of the dog for its behavior may be useful in knowing whether it has rabies or not.
4.Consult a doctor immediately.

Snake bites. Snakes are silent but can be deadly. If you are bitten by a poisonous snake…

1.Keep still.
2.Do not suck the affected area to get the venom out, especially if you have a wound or a cut in your mouth.
3.Do not use cold packs or hot packs.
4.Avoid using a tourniquet (a device for arresting bleeding made of a bandage twisted tight usually with a stick or a piece of rubber tubing).
5.Seek immediate veterinary care.
6.These bites carry high risk of infection and require professional attention promptly.

For bee or wasp stings. Be stings are acid, so neutralize it with baking soda. Wasp stings, on the other hand, are alkaline, so neutralize it with vinegar or lemon juice.

1.If a stinger remains in the victim, you may try to remove it carefully with tweezers. Be careful not to squeeze the stinger as this will inject more venom.
2.If the stinger has been removed, wash the wound well with soap and water.
3.Cold compresses will help relieve the pain and swelling.
4.The stung area should be kept lower than the heart to slow the circulation of the venom.

Insect bites and stings can be life-threatening. In all cases bites, watch for signs of allergic reactions and if they do appear, seek professional medical attention without delay.

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