Here's why:
* Infection risk: Dog saliva contains bacteria that can cause infections, even from seemingly minor bites.
* Tetanus: If you haven't had a tetanus booster in the past 10 years, you're at risk for tetanus, a serious bacterial infection.
* Severity: It can be difficult to assess the severity of a bite yourself. A bite that seems superficial could have deeper damage, and a bite that looks serious may require specific treatments.
* Rabies: While less common in the US, rabies is a fatal disease transmitted through bites.
Here's what to do if you're bitten by a dog:
1. Clean the wound: Gently wash the bite area with soap and water.
2. Apply pressure: If it's bleeding, apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth to stop the bleeding.
3. Seek medical attention immediately.
4. Report the bite: Contact animal control to report the bite and the dog's owner.
Do not:
* Try to treat the wound yourself.
* Ignore the bite.
* Delay seeking medical attention.
Please prioritize your health and seek professional medical help for any dog bite.