What do I do if a rat bites my dog?

Answer by  jules (61)

If a rat bites your dog, kill the rat. Take the rat body and your dog to the vet and have the rat tested for rabies. Have your dog treated for any other diseases, and if he has been vaccinated for rabies, the vet can help with other issues. Otherwise, I don't know.

Answer by  katharine (3981)

If your dog is up to date with vaccinations he shouldn't be at risk for getting rabies, so you don't need to worry about that. Just keep an eye on the bite to make sure it doesn't get infected.

Answer by  Freddiealedo (7)

Today, Dec 8, 2011;in PR, one of my Boxers got bit on the nose while killing a rat. My Vet recommended by phone to clean the wound and put the dog on Cephalexin 500Mg antibiotic twice a day for 7 days, plus apply Mipurocin topical antiseptic on the wound. FreddieAledo,Caimito,PR

Answer by  erinlynn85 (40)

Try to capture the rat if possible and if it is safe, just incase the dog caught something from it the rat can be tested instead of your dog. Then take the dog immediatly to the vet to be checked out. Rats carry many diseases and something that is passed to your dog can be passed to you.

Answer by  cpncrash (424)

As long as your dog is up to date on his shots he should be fine. Clean the wound well, make sure the bleeding stops, rat bites can get infected easily so check the wound often to make sure there is no infection. Going to vet and getting antibiotics isnt a bad idea either.

Answer by  mammakat (11147)

Wild rats usually don't carry rabies, but if not inoculated, I would consult my vet. If he has his proper shots, you need to wash the wound with soap and water and apply a topical antiseptic. Make sure there is no standing water in your yard, as rats can transmit leptospirosis that way. If the wound's deep see your vet.

Answer by  rvan73 (68)

Basic first aid should be adimistered if one's dog gets bitten by a rat. The wound should be gently cleaned with warm water and mild soap, then treated with a disinfectant (such as warm salt water, 3% hydrogen peroxide or betadine). After cleansing and disinfecting, apply a clean bandage. Monitor your pet for signs of infection and contact your veterinarian.