WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR DOG BITES AND INFECTED DOG BITES?

* Be aware that the recommended treatments of illnesses are always being improved. This website was last update on 11/1/2024. The best treatment option MIGHT have changed since that time.

1. General Treatment for prophylaxis or mild infection of immunocompetent:
A. Augmentin (if not allergic to penicillin) 500-875 2 x /day * (for ~3 days)
B. Cefuroxime axetil (Ceftin) PLUS clindamycin or metronidazole (Flagyl) *
C. Azithromycin and Metronidazole * (especially for pregnant women)
 

2. For treatment of a dog bite with a Mild Infection:
A. Augmentin (if not allergic to Penicillin) 500-875 mg 2 x /day
B. Cefuroxime axetil (Ceftin) PLUS clindamycin or metronidazole (Flagyl) *
C. Azithromycin and Metronidazole * (especially for pregnant women)

For treatment of mild infection who are allergic to Penicillin:
A. clindamycin or metronidazole PLUS Bactrim or Doxycycline and Metronidazole

3. For treatment of a dog bites and a Severe Infection--or Immuno Compromised: People who develop fever, chills, muscle pains, despite oral medications for 48 hours.
A. Intravenous (IV) antibiotics & Hospitalization
B. Clindamycin IV *
C. Metronidazole IV  PLUS Bactrim IV *

4. Tetanus prevention if needed:
Consider tetanus vaccination based on the last time a person was vaccinated.
If two or less tetanus vaccination or have a tetanus prone wound both adults and children should receive tetanus immune globulin.  There is always the possibility of having an anaphylactic reactions (~0.001%)
 

CAUTION:

1. All medications, including all antibiotics and tetanus immune globulin, have a risk of side effects. 2. Mild side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itching, and light skin rash.
3. Possible Severe side effects are a severe skin rash, an anaphylactic allergic reaction (leading to the inability to breathe and subsequent death if not treated rapidly), and Clostridioides difficile infection (C. Diff.) of the colon.
4. Medications such as creams, lotions, and gels should be tested in small dosages in areas of the body that are not easily seen.

Consult “Epocrates.com” for each Specific Medication’s possible “ Adverse Reactions.” Side effects are also referred to as “Adverse Reactions.” Epocrates.com will tell you both “common reactions” and “serious reactions.” You will have to create an account, but it is simple, fast, and free.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A NON-INFECTED DOG BITE?

The symptoms of a non-infected dog bite are
puncture marks in the skin and/or torn or bruised skin with mild redness and mild tenderness.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF AN INFECTED DOG BITE

The symptoms of an infected dog bite are teeth puncture marks and or some bruised or torn skin, with the addition of moderate to severe redness, swelling and pain. This is especially true if the bite seems to be getting worse after 24 hours, has a noticeable red streak radiating from it, or has pus anywhere in the bite. Fever, chills, and night sweat almost guarantee that the bite is infected.

WHAT CAUSES A DOG BITE INFECTION?

Dog bite, are usually caused by a bacteria. The most common bacteria that a dog bite infection are Pasteurella Multocida and Staphylococcus. Other possible bacteria include Streptococcus Species, Corynebacterium Species, Eikenella Corrodens and Capnocytophaga Canimorsus.

HOW ARE DOG BITES DIAGNOSED?

Dog bites and dog bite infections can be diagnosed with a careful history and visual inspection of the wound. To confirm a dog bite infection other test can be done. These test include a complete blood count (CBC), wound culture, and a blood culture.