Getting attacked by a dog is a traumatic experience for anyone, but getting bit by a rabid dog or a dog whose rabies status is unknown is absolutely devastating. Knowing how to handle such a bite can help save your life or the life of someone close to you.
Wound Care
If you are bitten by a dog that you suspect has rabies, wash the wound immediately with soap and water. Then, seek medical attention so that a licensed health care provider can assess your risk for rabies exposure.
Reporting a Bite
The procedure for reporting a dog bite in Arizona depends on the county in which you reside. Maricopa County, for example, requires citizens to report bites to Maricopa County Animal Care and Control. When you report a bite, give the responding officer as much detail as possible, including the dog’s color, breed, size, and markings.
Rabies Risk
If you are bitten by someone’s pet dog, the risk of rabies is unlikely. The School of Veterinary Medicine at Louisiana State University recommends that the animal be confined and observed for 10 days to look for any signs of illness. If you are bitten by a stray dog, however, LSU recommends that the animal be euthanized so that it can be tested for rabies. If it tests positive, you should begin post-exposure rabies treatment immediately. Post-exposure treatment involves the administration of HRIG – human rabies immune globulin – in a series of shots. These shots can cause redness and soreness, but additional adverse effects are not common.
Arizona is a strict liability state when it comes to dog bites. This means that a dog’s owner is responsible for paying all medical expenses associated with a bite even if he or she was not negligent. If you or a loved one suffered a dog bite and need help getting compensation for your medical expenses, the Phoenix dog bite attorneys at The Breyer Law Offices P.C. can help. Call us at (602) 457-6222 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
