Bite Wounds Management

Canine bite wounds are a common yet potentially serious form of trauma in veterinary medicine, requiring a systematic approach to triage, diagnostics, analgesia, wound management, and infection control. This lecture provides a comprehensive overview of evaluating and treating bite wounds, including wound assessment, sedation protocols, appropriate antibiotic use, and decision-making for wound closure or open management.

• 1. Recognize the steps in initial triage and diagnostic evaluation of dogs presenting with bite wounds, including identification of systemic or life-threatening injuries.
• 2. Differentiate between levels of wound severity to determine appropriate analgesia, sedation, and antibiotic protocols.
• 3. Implement effective wound management strategies, including lavage, debridement, and the decision-making process for primary closure, delayed closure, or secondary intention healing.