What to Do When Dog Bites a Sitter

Now, let's talk about what pet sitters don't want to think about: getting bitten by a dog during a gig. It's scary, it hurts, and honestly, throws a wrench into the whole fantasy of "cuddling a puppy and getting paid".

So what if the pearly white connects with the skin? First and foremost, don't panic. Easier said than done, I know! However, it is important to respond calmly. Screaming or sudden movements can scare your dog even more and cause him to bite again.

Immediate action is key!

• Assess the damage: Is it a minor bite or a puncture wound? Superficial scratches or broken skin require varying levels of care.
• Wash the wound thoroughly. Use soap and warm water. Really rub well for a few minutes.
• Apply antibiotic ointment and bandage. Cover the wound to prevent infection.
• Evaluate the dog's behavior. Why did it happen? Was the dog surprised, in pain, or was it guarding something? Understanding the trigger can help prevent future incidents.

So, let's dig a little deeper. Was it truly aggression or, was it, as many situations are, the result of an accident? It's all about context. In some cases, it's just a case of a playful (but clumsy!) pup mistaking your hand for a toy. Other times, there may be an underlying behavioral or health problems that you are not aware of.

Reporting and Medical Procedures

Here things get a little more serious. It is important to prioritize your health and act responsibly.

If the bite breaks the skin: Seek medical attention promptly. Your doctor will assess your risk of infection and recommend appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics and tetanus vaccinations. Rabies is something to seriously consider! It's rare in properly vaccinated domesticated dogs, but it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Contact the pet owner immediately. Hurry up! They need to know what happened. Be honest and factual, but don't hold yourself accountable until you understand the situation more clearly. After being bitten, my first call was to the client. They were worried and reassured that I was okay. We reviewed the dog's vaccination records and discussed strategies for future interactions.

Document everything! Take pictures of the bite, keep a record of the treatment, and record all communication with the pet owner. This document is invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim or address legal issues in the future.

Action	Why is it important
Wash the wound	Prevent infection
See a doctor (if necessary)	Ensures proper treatment and prevents complications
Contacting pet owners	Keep them informed and allow them to provide information about the dog's history
Document everything	Protect you legally and financially

Prevention is the top priority!

The best bite is the one that never happens. So, here are some tips to minimize your risks:

• Meet and greet: Be sure to meet the dog (and the owner) before accepting a pet sitting job. Observe your dog's behavior and ask about any known triggers or sensitivities.
• Respect boundaries: Learn to read your dog's body language. a growl, stiff posture, or whale eyes (if you can see the whites of your dog's) are all warning signs.
• Avoid triggers: If the owner says that the dog is guarding the food or toy, avoid such situations.
• Supervise Interactions: Always supervise children around the dog and never leave them unattended.
• Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable around your dog, don't take on the task. It's okay to say no!

Being bitten is never fun, but by taking the right steps and prioritizing prevention, you can minimize your risks and enjoy your pet sitting job (most of the time!). Remember, even the cutest dog can bite under certain circumstances. Stay vigilant, stay safe, and happy setting!