Without meaning to, sometimes our pets can injure us or others. These injuries can lead to infection if they are not treated quickly and correctly.
Living in Alaska means sharing our beautiful state with wildlife and the pets we love at home. Dogs and cats bring comfort and joy, but even gentle animals can cause accidental injuries. Knowing how to respond can prevent serious problems, especially when medical help may be far away.
Animal bites and scratches happen more often than people think. A dog might nip during play. A cat might scratch while jumping off a lap. These injuries can lead to infection if they are not treated quickly and correctly.
If a bite breaks the skin, the first step is to wash the area with soap and warm water. Let the water run over the wound for several minutes. This helps remove bacteria and dirt. Do not use harsh chemicals like hydrogen peroxide inside the wound. They can damage tissue and slow healing. After washing, apply a clean bandage and watch for signs of infection. These include redness, swelling, warmth, and pus. If any of these appear, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Cat scratches deserve special attention. Cats carry bacteria on their claws and in their mouths. Because their teeth and claws are sharp and narrow, the wound may look small but can drive bacteria deep into your tissue. If a cat scratch becomes red, tender, or swollen, seek medical care. Always wash cat scratches with soap and water right away, just like a bite.
Dog bites can cause deep wounds and heavy bleeding. If bleeding is serious, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or towel. Keep the pressure steady for at least ten minutes. If the bleeding does not slow, call for emergency help. Deep bites need professional cleaning to prevent infection.
After any bite or scratch, check when you last had a tetanus shot. Tetanus is a dangerous infection that enters through broken skin. Most adults need a booster every ten years. If your last shot was more than five years ago and the wound is dirty or deep, you may need another one.
Rabies is rare in Alaska, but it does exist, mainly in foxes and bats. If a wild animal bites you, or if a pet bites you and its vaccination record is unknown, contact a doctor or the Alaska Section of Epidemiology right away. They can guide you on whether rabies treatment is needed.
Rabbits and squirrels live in many suburban and rural neighborhoods. They may look harmless, but they can bite or scratch when they feel trapped or startled. A squirrel may bite if you try to feed it by hand. A rabbit can kick and scratch with its strong back legs if you attempt to pick it up. These bites and scratches break the skin and carry bacteria that can lead to infection. Wash the wound with soap and warm water, apply a clean bandage, and watch for signs of infection. Never try to handle wild animals, even the small ones that seem friendly. Admire them from a safe distance and keep your hands at your sides.
Prevention is the best protection. Let a dog see and sniff you before you pet it. Avoid sudden movements around animals. Do not disturb a dog that is eating or sleeping. Keep your own pets up to date on rabies vaccines. Trim your cat's claws regularly to reduce the chance of deep scratches.
For more information, contact your local health clinic or visit the Alaska Department of health website. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also offers free guides on animal bites and rabies. Your local animal control office can answer questions about pet safety and vaccination requirements in your area.
Christian M. Hartley is an Alaska resident with three decades of public safety and public service experience. He lives in Big Lake with his wife and their three sons.
