What To Do If You Are Bitten By An Animal

     Animal attacks often result in serious injury, especially to children. According to the Department of Health, if you were bitten by a warm-blooded animal, such as a dog, cat, fox, skunk, bat, etc., there is a danger that the animal may be infected with rabies.

     If you have been bitten by an animal, you should take the following precautions:

1. Wash the wound with plenty of soap and warm to remove as much dirt, saliva, and therefore, bacteria, as quickly as possible;
2. Scrub it well and run water over it for several minutes to make sure it is clean and all of the soap is rinsed out of the wound;
3. After washing, apply an antiseptic solution, like iodine or another disinfectant;
4. After applying an antibiotic ointment,  use gauze or bandages to cover the wound;
5. Seek medical attetion if the wound is severe. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent the wound from becoming infected.

     Infection can be identified by the following signs:  tenderness, redness, warmth, swelling, fever, or pus in the wound. You may be advised to get a tetanus booster shot if you have not recently received one.

     Personal injury claims are intended to restore injured persons to their original condition, prior to the loss. If you have been attacked by an animal, you may be entitled to receive financial compensation for your injuries.

     Determining your legal rights, however, can be complicated. It may be unclear who you should bring a claim against, and to what sort of damages you are entitled. I seek to recover all damages and maximum compensation for these injuries. Call me directly at 410-446-6644 or complete the Free Attorney Consultation box on this page and I will discuss, review and evaluate your case with you at no charge.