Animal Bites

Reporting Animal Bites
If your pet has bitten someone or another animal, or if you or your pet is the victim of an animal bite, you are required by law to report such incidents within 24 hours to the Hampton Township Police Department. This requirement is specifically important because known cases of rabies in animals have been confirmed in Hampton Township. It is also important to get a description of the animal that has bitten. If the owner is unknown, try to keep the animal in sight until the Police Department arrives.

Treating Animal Bites
There are 3 things to consider when treating animal bites:

• Preventing infection
• Preventing rabies
• Stopping bleeding

If the bleeding is not severe, the wound should be washed with mild, soapy water for 3 to 5 minutes. It should then be covered with a clean dressing. Applying direct pressure over the wound with a clean, dry cloth may control bleeding. Elevation of the area also helps control the bleeding.

Watching for Infection
If the wound does not need stitches, it should be observed for the next 24 to 48 hours for signs of infection. If the wound becomes infected, a healthcare professional should be consulted. The provider should also be contacted if the person has not had a tetanus shot in the past 5 years.

Seeking Emergency Care
Emergency care should be sought immediately in these situations:

• A significant amount of flesh has been lost
• The person has been bitten by a strange animal
• The person is suffering from severe blood loss
• There are many bites
• There are serious injuries

For more information or to report an animal bite, call the Hampton Police Department at 412-486-0400 or 911 for immediate service.