Dog bites

General description
  • Dog bites are detected on abattoir inspection when wounds to the skin, resembling bite marks, are found.
  • Damage and bruising to underlying tissue may be present and wounds may be infected.
  • Bite wounds are most found on the back legs.
Clinical signs
  • Reluctance to walk due to pain.
Diagnosis
  • There is no certain way to distinguish between domestic and wild dog attacks.
  • The size of the puncture marks; their location and nature help distinguish between foxes, dogs and the talons of birds of prey.
Prevention
  • Muzzle biting dogs.
  • Improve dog training and management.
  • Control dingoes and wild dogs.
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