An animal bite can be very scary for your child. What should you do?

• As soon as possible, call your local Humane Society, Rabies Control Center, police, or sheriff.
• Apply pressure to the area with a clean cloth to stop any bleeding.
• Clean the bite with soap and water or hydrogen peroxide, 3 times a day.
• Keep the bite area clean and watch for signs of infection.
• Call your child's doctor if:
  • You see signs of infection in the bite area like: pus, redness, pain, warmth, or swelling
  • Your child runs a fever (101ºF/38.5ºC or more by mouth)
  • Your child has not had a tetanus shot in the last 5 years.
  • The bites are big enough that you think it needs stitches or needs better cleaning than you can do at home.
  • You cannot stop the bleeding.

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