Ouch! Your first bite. PART II OF II
© Jane Adamo
===== OW! I GOT BIT!
First, don't freak out. You're not going to catch anything.
Second, wash the wound with soap and water. You can use an ointment or antiseptic if you feel like but I don't. "They" say, don't use Hydrogen Peroxide because it can further hurt damaged skin.
Third, let it bleed! You don't get an infection from the bite -- you get an infection because the bite drives the bacteria on your own skin into the wound. Bleeding forces bacteria OUT of the wound, cleaning it. I wrap the bite site lightly with plenty of toilet paper until it stops. If it's taking a long time to stop, let it bleed for a while and then apply pressure.
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WHEN TO WORRY
When I taught horseback riding, I always cringed when other instructors would tell people, "There's NOTHING to be afraid of." Good grief, I would NEVER tell anyone there's no danger concerning any living thing.
If the next day, your bite is throbbing and the site is enlarged, something might be wrong and you should see your doctor. Our legendary bad bite is Sandy who had to be admitted to the hospital. That doesn't happen often and have taken a few very deep bites in the meaty part of my hand with no complicaitons. But of course, when in doubt, see your doctor.
When I worked with horses, I kept up with my tetanus shots. Now, whenever I see the doctor for something else, if I remember it, I'll ask for one. Proceed however you and your doctor feel most comfortable.
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FEELINGS The first time I got bit, I actually wept. It hurt and I was scared. I didn't even want to look at the rat. I was afraid I'd never like rats again.
It passed in a day or two. A greater understanding and acceptance of their weaknesses and my own make me more loving and better equipped to handle future situations. When I think of all the times I had to cause my rats pain in order to treat them medically, and they didn't bite, and for some reason they loved me more than before, I have a renewed apprecation for the trust and love these little guys give to us big giants.
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