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Animal bite - Infants

Infants (Ages 0–2)Children (Ages 3–17)Adults (Ages 10–74)Seniors (Ages 75 and Older)

What it is

An animal bite occurs when an animal bites a person and breaks the skin. There is a serious risk of infection, because animal saliva contains many viruses and bacteria.

What you can do at home

What to do

If your child has a wound from an animal bite: 

  • remove any jewellery near the wound (for example, remove any rings if the wound is to a hand); 
  • wash your hands before and after touching the wound; 
  • wash the wound with tap water and mild, unscented soap for 10 minutes as soon as possible. Wear gloves if you have any; 
  • you can apply antiseptic (iodine or 70% alcohol): do not use peroxide or cotton balls; 
  • let the wound air dry or apply a bandage if the wound is weeping; 
  • if the wound is bleeding, apply a bandage and press on it for 15 minutes; 
  • if the injured part of the body is swollen, keep it elevated; 
  • if your child is in pain, follow your pharmacy’s advice. You can give them acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) if there are no contraindications. Note: Ibuprofen should not be given to children under 6 months of age. 
Avoid
  • do not apply any cream or ointment to the wound; 

When to seek medical attention

If your child have any of these signs:
  • the wound isn’t healing; 
  • the wound is large and may need stitches (try to see a healthcare professional within 6 hours of the injury); 
  • the wound is on the face (try to see a healthcare professional within 6 hours of the injury);  
  • the wound shows signs of infection, such as pus (yellow or green liquid), pain, redness, or increasing swelling. 

Verify that your child's tetanus shot is up to date and whether your child needs a rabies vaccine.

Call 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse, or contact a healthcare professional (pharmacist, doctor, or nurse practitioner), if any of the signs listed above apply.

When to go to the hospital right away

Your child suddenly experiences extreme fatigue, dizziness, unusual behaviour, or convulsions (uncontrollable shaking of the body).
The injured body part has less feeling, becomes difficult to move, or changes shape.
The pain is severe and is not going away, even after you have treated it.
New symptoms quickly appear: fever, shivers, weakness, racing heartbeat.
The wound looks infected and the symptoms are quickly getting worse: redness, swelling, intense pain.
The child was bitten by a venomous snake.
It is bleeding heavily and has not stopped after applying pressure for 15 minutes.

Need help?

Call Info-Santé at 811, Option 1, to speak with a nurse at any time.  

Go to the pharmacy for advice on medications or treatment.  

Make an appointment on Clic Santé if your child needs a vaccination. 

Make an appointment at your medical clinic or CLSC.  

If you do not have a family doctor, go to https://gap.soinsvirtuels.gouv.qc.ca/en or call 811, Option 3.   

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