What to Do If Bitten by a Strange Dog: SPKC Recommends Vaccination

A man (name changed) went on a bike ride along a gravel road on Easter, passing a remote rural homestead. Two dogs ran out – one large, resembling a German Shepherd, and a smaller one. They barked loudly and chased him, with the larger dog managing to bite his leg.

After the bite, he stopped the bike, examined the injury, and realized he couldn't get home on his own. He called a relative to pick him up. Although his trousers weren't torn, tooth marks were left on his leg above the ankle.

Experts from the Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (SPKC) state that if bitten by a strange dog, one should get vaccinated against rabies and tetanus for preventive purposes. The article also raises the question of the dog owner's liability but only provides health advice.