Dog Bites: First Aid Response, Infection Prevention, and Safety in Canada

Dog bites are common injuries, particularly among children. While many bites are minor, all dog bites should be taken seriously because of the risk of infection, tissue damage, and—rarely in Canada—rabies exposure.

From a first aid, CPR, and workplace safety perspective, managing a dog bite begins with scene safety, followed by prompt wound care and knowing when to seek medical help.

This article is provided for general education and first aid awareness only and does not replace medical care.

First Priority: Ensure Safety for Everyone

Before providing care:

Secure the dog to prevent further injury
- If the owner is present, ask them to restrain the dog
- If not, move the injured person to a safe area
Do not approach or attempt to restrain an aggressive animal
Ensure the scene is safe for the rescuer and bystanders

Dogs may bite again if they feel threatened, injured, or protective of territory.

Universal Precautions

When giving first aid:

Use gloves or barrier protection if available
Avoid direct contact with blood
Wash hands thoroughly after providing care

These precautions protect both the rescuer and the injured person.

Immediate First Aid for Dog Bites

1. Control Bleeding

Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth or dressing
Elevate the area if possible
Do not use a tourniquet unless bleeding is severe and life-threatening

2. Clean the Wound

Once bleeding is controlled:

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and warm running water
Gently clean inside the wound, not just the surrounding skin
Rinse well to remove all soap, which can irritate tissue

Cleaning is one of the most important steps to reduce infection risk.

3. Cover the Wound

Apply a clean, dry dressing
An antibiotic ointment may be used, but it is not required
Keep the wound covered and clean

Monitor the area closely over the next several days.

Watch for Signs of Infection

Dog bites can become infected even with proper care. Seek medical attention if you notice:

Increasing redness
Swelling or warmth
Worsening pain
Pus or drainage
Fever

Infections may develop within 24–72 hours.

When to Seek Medical Care Immediately

Medical assessment is strongly recommended if:

The bite is deep or puncture-like
Bleeding cannot be controlled
The wound is on the hands, face, neck, or joints
There is tissue tearing or avulsion
The wound edges do not close naturally
The injured person has a weakened immune system

Rabies Considerations in Canada

Rabies is rare in domestic dogs in Canada, but it remains a serious disease.

Seek medical care if:

The dog is unknown or cannot be identified
The owner cannot provide proof of rabies vaccination
The bite was unprovoked

Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but early treatment is highly effective.

Stitches and Wound Repair

Some dog bites may require:

Sutures (stitches)
Advanced wound care
Antibiotics

Bites to the hands or face require special attention due to:

Risk of infection
Potential loss of function
Scarring concerns

Prevention and Safety Tips

To reduce dog bite risk:

Supervise children around dogs at all times
Teach children not to approach unfamiliar dogs
Avoid disturbing dogs while eating, sleeping, or caring for puppies
Respect warning signs such as growling or stiff posture

Workplaces with animals should have clear safety protocols.

Key First Aid Takeaways for Canadians

Scene safety always comes first
Clean dog bite wounds thoroughly
Monitor closely for infection
Unknown dogs require medical assessment
Early care prevents complications

Educational Disclaimer

This article is provided for general education and first aid awareness only. It does not diagnose or treat injuries. Always seek medical care for serious dog bites or concerns about infection or rabies.