If a person is bitten by a dog, they should keep the area elevated and cover it with a clean cloth, applying pressure to stop the bleeding. The bite should be washed with soap and water, followed by an antibiotic ointment and sterile bandage. If the bite will not stop bleeding, is deep, begins discharging or becomes red, the victim should seek medical attention immediately.
There are other reasons to seek medical attention immediately, as well, even if the bite appears to be a minor one. The victim may need to get a tetanus shot to fight infection. Also, if there is a question as to whether the dog that bit them is current on their rabies vaccine, medical attention is critical.
After a victim’s medical needs have been addressed, they should then contact a Virginia dog bite attorney.