Dog Attack - What Now?

By Bethan Lovvorn (RVN)

It’s every dog owners worst nightmare, but do you know what to do after? The first thing I’d recommend is ensuring that both yourself and your dog are out of danger. Ensure the attacking dog’s owner has secured their dog and ask them to create some space from you.

Ensure you're both safe!

Although it might not be what you think of in the moment, where possible it would be a good idea to obtain some contact details so that you can discuss vet bill payments if necessary.

Next step would be to check the wound for heavy bleeding. Each wound is likely to have some blood, however heavy bleeding needs to be addressed early. If you find yourself in this situation apply pressure to the wound and contact your vet immediately to let them know you are on the way. Letting them know you are on your way in advance means that they can prepare for your pets arrival and arrange for staff to be ready on hand to help your pet as soon as possible. Do not attempt to apply any tourniquet unless you have been suitably trained. These can sometimes do more harm than good.

'a good dog first aid kit should be part of your walking kit!

If the wound is not seriously bleeding, then it would be a good idea to flush the wound out. I always carry my Poorly Paws kit with me on walks so I am prepared in case, these contain mini saline flushes that you can use here. If you don’t have saline flush, you could flush the wound with salted water. (Do not do this around the eye). This is a good idea because dogs mouths contain a lot of bad bacteria so we want to wash out the worst of it. Additionally, it is important for the same reason that you prevent your dog from interfering with the wound. It is an old wives tale that dogs saliva has healing properties, and often licking will cause infection.

Next step would then be to contact your vet to see if they would recommend you take your dog in for a check over. The vets would then check the severity of the damage, and determine if the wound needs stitches.

All of this can be incredibly distressing for your dog, so make sure that once you are home you provide a quiet warm place for them to rest. It can be a good idea to contact a local behaviourist to get advice on how to help your pet during this time.