Dehradun News: In recent times, dog bite cases have become a serious concern across India. Many incidents have been reported where individuals lost their lives due to not receiving timely treatment after being bitten by stray dogs. With the increasing number of stray dogs on streets and in local neighborhoods, the risk of dog bites and rabies infection is rising sharply. Experts say that immediate medical attention is the only way to prevent painful and life-threatening complications.
Why Immediate Treatment Matters
According to doctors, when a person is bitten by a dog, there is a high risk of contracting rabies, a deadly viral disease that directly affects the brain, nervous system, and heart. Without urgent medical help, rabies almost always leads to death. The painful reality is that once rabies symptoms appear, it is nearly impossible to save the patient.
This is why health experts strongly emphasize that after a dog bite, people should not waste time with home remedies. Instead, they should immediately visit the nearest hospital and get the recommended injections. If the hospital is far away, there are certain first-aid steps that must be followed at home until medical care is available.
Three Stages of Dog Bite Cases
Dr. Sonia, a physician at Doon Hospital in Dehradun, explained that treatment for dog bites depends on three different stages:
- Stage One (Mild Injury):
- In this case, the bite only scratches the skin without deep wounds.
- Many people make the mistake of applying chili powder, turmeric, or oil on the wound, which increases infection risk.
- Instead, the right step is to wash the wound under running water for at least 15 minutes and apply antiseptic cream.
- Stage Two (Moderate Bite):
- Here, the bite causes bleeding or visible wounds.
- The wound must be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water, preferably using povidone-iodine solution, which reduces infection chances.
- Medical experts recommend rabies immunoglobulin and the first dose of anti-rabies vaccine.
- Stage Three (Severe Bite):
- This involves deep bites or multiple wounds, usually on the face, hands, or near vital organs.
- In such cases, urgent medical attention is required.
- The wound should be washed immediately, treated with antiseptics like Betadine, and injections must be taken without delay.
Importance of Rabies Injection
Health specialists highlight that rabies injections should be given within the first 24 hours of the bite, but preferably as soon as possible. The anti-rabies vaccine is generally given in multiple doses over a few weeks, and missing any dose can put the patient’s life at risk.
Common Schedule for Rabies Vaccine (For General Awareness)
| Injection Type | When It Is Given | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| First Dose (Day 0) | Immediately after the bite | Prevents rabies virus from spreading |
| Second Dose (Day 3) | 3 days after the bite | Boosts immunity |
| Third Dose (Day 7) | One week after the bite | Strengthens protection |
| Fourth Dose (Day 14) | Two weeks after the bite | Builds long-term immunity |
| Fifth Dose (Day 28) | Four weeks after the bite | Ensures full protection |
Along with these, in severe cases, doctors also recommend rabies immunoglobulin for extra safety.
First Aid Steps Before Reaching Hospital
If the hospital is far away, immediate first aid can make a huge difference. Here are some dog bite treatment tips suggested by health experts:
- Wash the wound with running water and mild soap for at least 10–15 minutes.
- Apply antiseptic solution like povidone-iodine or Betadine.
- Avoid covering the wound tightly; let it breathe.
- Do not apply chili, turmeric, oil, or any traditional remedies.
- Reach the nearest hospital as soon as possible for injections.
Why Home Remedies Are Dangerous
Some people rely on local remedies like applying haldi, red chili, or oil, but these only worsen the wound and increase infection risk. Rabies is not a disease that can be treated at home. Once the virus enters the nervous system, no home medicine can stop it. Only timely vaccination and proper medical treatment can save lives.
Public Awareness Is the Key
Doctors warn that lack of awareness is one of the biggest reasons why people lose their lives after a dog bite. Many victims ignore small bites or delay treatment, which gives the virus time to spread. Public health campaigns and community awareness about dog bite treatment tips can help reduce fatalities.
Also read: Bhavnagar News: Hardik Chauhan’s Mission to Serve Voiceless Animals and Birds
ConclusionDog : Bite Treatment Tips
A dog bite should never be taken lightly. Immediate washing of the wound, proper antiseptic use, and timely vaccination are the only proven ways to prevent rabies. Delaying treatment, depending on myths or home remedies, can cost lives. As experts say, “It’s better to get an injection on time than to risk a painful death.”
