Although not every cut or scratch that your dog gets will need veterinary care, but it's important to know how to treat your dog's wounds and when it's time to head to the vet. Today our Los Angeles County team provides tips on dog wound care at home.
Accidents Happen (Even to Dogs!)
Even the most laid-back and relaxed dog could experience an accident causing a cut, graze or other injury that requires tending to. That said, some wounds that may seem small can result in serious infections so if you are in doubt about whether you should take your dog to the vet, it's always best to err on the side of caution. Taking your pooch to the vet for a wound as soon as it occurs could save your dog a lot of pain, and you a lot of money.
Wounds Requiring Veterinary Care
Some dog wounds can be treated at home, but there are some wounds and injuries that should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Wounds that require veterinary care include:
- Animals bites (these may look small but become infected very very quickly)
- Skin that has been torn away from the flesh below (often occurs during dog fights)
- A wound with a large object lodged in it (ie: a piece of glass)
- Wounds caused by a car accident or other trauma
- Injuries around the eyes, head or that lead to breathing difficulties
Preparing A Doggie First Aid Kit
Having a pet first aid kit on hand, and a little know-how can be helpful if your dog has a minor injury. Below are a few things you should always have on hand in case your dog gets hurt.
- Muzzle
- Soap or cleaning solution
- Pet antiseptic solution (e.g. 2% chlorhexidine)
- Antimicrobial ointment suitable for dogs
- Sterile bandages
- Self-adhesive bandages
- Bandage scissors
- Tweezers
- Empty, clean spray bottle
- Clean towels or rags
Administering First Aid
Wounds should be cleaned and cared for as soon as possible in order to avoid infections. Before beginning first aid on your dog, it is best to have someone to help you restain your pup and be generally supportive.
If you are unsure about what to do, or whether your pet needs veterinary care, remember that when it comes to your animal's health it is always better to err on the side of caution. When in doubt contact your vet, or an emergency vet immediately.
Muzzle Your Dog
A scared, anxious or hurt dog may bite while you are trying to help which is why our team recommends muzzling your hurt pooch before beginning first aid treatment. It's a good idea to practice putting a muzzle on your dog before an injury arises so that your dog is used to the process and how the muzzle feels. This will help to prevent adding to your pup's distress.
Check For Foreign Objects
Check your dog's wound for objects or debris that may be lodged in the wound. This is especially important if the wound is on your dog's paw pad and they may have stepped on something sharp. If you are able to easily remove the object with tweezers, do so gently. If the object is lodged deeply, leave it and call your veterinarian, or contact an emergency vet immediately.
Clean the Wound
If the wound is located on your dog's paw, you can gently wash the injured paw in a clean bowl or bucket of warm water to help remove any dirt and debris. If the wound is elsewhere on your dog's body you can place your dog in a sink, bath, or shower and gently run clean water over the wound. You may want to add a small amount of mild baby shampoo, unscented dish soap or unscented hand soap to the water.
Do not use harsh cleaners or apply hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, or other caustic cleaning products to your dog’s skin as these can be painful or even slow the wound's healing.
Control Bleeding
Provided that there is nothing stuck in the wound apply pressure using a clean towel. While most small wounds will stop bleeding within a couple of minutes, larger wounds are likely to take longer. Bleeding should stop within 10 minutes of applying pressure. If your dog is still bleeding after that time, contact your vet or emergency animal hospital right away.
Cover Your Dog's Wound
If there is antibacterial ointment (without hydrocortisone or other corticosteroids) in the household you may want to apply a small amount to the area before covering the wound with a piece of sterile gauze or other bandage. Use a self-adhesive elastic bandage to hold the gauze in place.
Don't Let Your Dog Lick The Wound
If your pooch is trying to lick the wound it may be necessary to have your dog wear an e-collar.
Ongoing Care
You should check on your dog's wound at least twice a day to ensure that infection doesn't set in and healing is proceeding as expected. Clean the wound with water or a vet-recommended antiseptic solution twice a day. Contact your vet immediately if the wound become inflamed and shows signs of infection.
If you notice increasing redness, swelling, discharge, increasing pain in the area of the wound or a bad odor coming from the wound, contact your vet right away.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.