🐾 Dog Bite Prevention – April 22

Did you know that most dog bites are preventable—and that the majority actually come from dogs we know? Bite incidents are on the rise, making it more important than ever to understand how to stay safe.

Join Mercy for this important session:

Dog Bite Prevention Education

📅 April 22, 2026
🕖 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM

📍 Location: Mercy Hospital Springfield – Doyle Meeting Room

In this session, you’ll learn how to:

• Recognize and understand dog body language
• Identify risky situations before they escalate
• Take the right steps to prevent bites
• Know what to do if a situation becomes unsafe

Whether you’re a dog owner, parent, or someone who interacts with dogs, this session will provide practical strategies to prevent injuries and handle bites safely if they occur.

🏥 Choosing the Right Level of Care After a Dog Bite

Even with prevention, accidents can happen. Knowing where to seek care for a dog bite is critical to avoid unnecessary ER visits while ensuring proper treatment.

Non-Emergency Options:

📞 Nurse On Call (for MSU-insured employees)

• Guidance for after-hours concerns
• Helps determine if care should be urgent or can wait
  Call: 417-841-5566

🏥 Magers Health and Wellness Center (on campus)

• Treatment for minor bites, cuts, and injuries
• Lab testing or wound care as needed

⏱ Mercy Urgent Care

• Best for bites requiring prompt attention but not life-threatening
• Examples: minor bleeding, puncture wounds, scratches

When to Go to the ER

Reserve ER visits for serious bites or complications, such as:

• Severe bleeding or deep puncture wounds
• Signs of infection (spreading redness, swelling, fever)
• Severe trauma or injuries to the face, head, or joints

ER Copays:

• Buy-Up Plan: $250
• Base Plan: $500

💡 Accident Insurance Coverage

Missouri State University employees enrolled in Group Voluntary Accident Insurance may be eligible for additional financial protection for injuries. Benefits can include:

• Hospital confinement and intensive care coverage
• Ambulance services
• Medical expense reimbursement for accident-related treatment

For full details, visit: MSU Accident Insurance

✅ Stay Safe and Informed

Attending this beneficial educational session and knowing your care options ensures you can prevent bites, respond appropriately if they occur, and access available resources to reduce stress and costs.