ANIMAL BITES

WHY BITES HAPPEN?

Children can benefit greatly from having a pet. But, if an animal is teased or harmed by a young child, it is likely to retaliate by biting.

It is rare that children are bitten by animals, but when it does happen it can cause serious injury and be a frightening experience for the child concerned.
For an animal to 'turn' on a child contradicts the impressions that pets are gentle, affectionate creatures - a confusing situation for a trusting young mind.
Bites are usually from dogs or cats (and, in the toddler years, other children). However, with an ever-increasing range of pets available, a child may encounter hamsters, mice and even snakes.

Children tend to trust animals, so it can be upsetting when a pet that was considered 'friendly' turns nasty

The appearance of animal bites

Animal bites are often superficial, requiring only minor treatment, but in some cases they may be serious enough to need stitches.

An animal bite usually takes the form of puncture marks, tears, scratches or, at worst, ripped flesh or crush injuries.
The wound may bleed and rapidly become swollen and inflamed.
The areas most often bitten tend to be the ones that are either at the level of the animal or those not covered by clothing.
These include the face, hands, arms, feet and legs. Small children are at greater risk of a bite on the face because of their proximity to the animal.

An animal bite usually punctures the skin and is quite likely to leave a scar.

When to seek help

A doctor should examine a child who has been bitten because of potential complications, such as:

Localized infection: there are many varieties of bacteria in the mouth of any animal. If the skin is punctured, there is a possibility that the organisms could cause local infection, or enter the bloodstream and travel to other areas of the body.

Damage to underlying tissues: if teeth pass through the skin, they can also penetrate tissues such as tendons and muscle.

The transmission of serious infections: the child may be infected with tetanus or rabies.

First-aid treatment

Offer comfort and take steps to relieve pain and prevent infection:

Ensure the child is now safe and comfort and reassure him.
Wash minor bites with soap and water and cover with a plaster or dry dressing.
Serious bites or those that are bleeding should be treated by elevating the wounded area and covering with a sterile dry dressing, applying gentle but firm pressure.
If the skin has been broken or the child is in severe pain, seek medical attention.
It is advisable to seek a doctor's advice before giving junior paracetamol to a child who has been bitten. He may need further treatment.

NOTE: Do not to give any drugs to a child whom you are looking after, or who is visiting, without parental consent.

Medical Treatment

The doctor will want to know about the animal that gave your child the bite, for example, whether it was known to you or whether it was domestic or wild. He will then assess the general condition of your child and examine the wound.

If the wound is superficial, it will be cleaned and dressed. Antiseptic cream may be applied if appropriate.
If the wound is deep or has caused damage to the underlying tissues, stitching may be necessary. But, if at all possible, the wound is left open to encourage healing and to lessen the risk of infection.
The affected area may be X-rayed if the injury is close to bone or to a joint.
If your child has not had a recent tetanus injection, a booster will be given.
A course of antibiotics is often prescribed because of the risk of infection.

Tetanus is not easy to treat but it can be prevented by immunization. Children usually have a booster injection for tetanus before starting school.

Rabies

Rabies is a virus that is spread through the saliva of an infected animal.

The virus attacks the nervous system causing a potentially life-threatening condition

Rabid animals often behave strangely, foaming at the mouth and appearing agitated and aggressive. Others, such as monkeys, can appear perfectly normal so it is always wise when travelling to find out about the prevalence of rabies in that region.

If your child is bitten by an animal that you think may be rabid, get medical help as soon as possible.

Rabies is extremely serious. However, there are, at present, no documented cases of rabies inBritain.

Snakebites

The adder is the only poisonous snake in the UK and its bite is very rarely fatal. However, it is conceivable, though not likely, that your child may be bitten during a holiday abroad. After calling for medical help, first aid to treat snakebite centers on preventing the venom spreading around the body. Snakebites are usually received on the lower leg.

Lay your child down, keeping the heart higher than the wound, and keep him as still and calm as possible.

Gently wash and dry the wound. Do not attempt to rub the bite or to suck or cut out the venom.

Apply a compression bandage directly over the affected area. Loosen if toes become numb or cold.

Using a second bandage, work from the toes to the knee applying firm, even pressure.

Preventative measures

The most obvious advice to parents is to instill in their children awareness that animals are not always as gentle and cuddly as they appear. Even the most patient animal could react aggressively if it is teased or inadvertently hurt, or if it is scared by sudden loud noises.

Never leave a young child alone with an animal, even if the animal is thought to be harmless.
If you have a caged pet, make sure that your child is unable to poke his fingers through the cage. Either keep the pet out of reach or use a fine wire mesh.
Teach your child never to approach a strange animal or to tease or hit animals.
When travelling abroad with your child, take advice from your doctor and make sure that your child has received appropriate vaccinations for that country.

For More Information: Please consult your physician on your next visit.

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