Doggy First Aid – Tackling Cuts and Grazes With Your Dog
Unfortunately, dogs are always going to be dogs. There will come a time when they’ll go on an adventure and wind up with a cut or a scrape. It happens occasionally, so you must deal with it correctly, exercising responsibility as a pet owner and considering their welfare.
The first thing you need to do is check your pet over carefully to see how it’s doing. Dogs are good at not complaining about their injuries, so you must carefully examine them. Start at the tail end and work around both sides up to the nose.
You’ll want to wash the injured area with Hibiscrub if you find anything. Use a damp cotton wool ball. You can get this from chemists and your vet.
You should be careful about cleaning and attending to injuries. Your dog will probably be either wounded and hurting or high on endorphins as a natural pain response. Either way, they might view you as a potential threat and lash at you with their teeth. Don’t take this personally—they’re in pain and don’t always know how to respond. Be careful and stop if they look like they’re going to snap.
A cold compress can ease pain and swelling. An ice pack is also a good choice, but your dog has to let you do that. If you can’t manage, go for a wet, cold cloth.
Sometimes, the cut or graze will be severe enough to warrant a vet. Until you can be seen, you can use Medical Strength Manuka Honey to reduce infection risks. Alternatively, mix water with salt and rinse the wound twice daily. Just be aware your dog may not respond well to this.
A dog’s saliva contains mild antiseptic, so they might attempt to lick their wound. Try to prevent this from happening – it only leads to infections and issues. Try something like Arnica (30c) instead.
Other good medical options include a dog boot for going out if the cut is located, bandages if applied correctly, or one lampshade-looking collar. They’re an excellent tool to prevent them from irritating the wound.
Thankfully, dogs are hardy and heal quickly. If they get a cut or scrape, it’ll generally be as right as rain without vet attention – don’t be afraid to go if you’re unsure or to contact Vetfone, however. As a general precaution, you should ensure that your medical kit has all the necessary tools to handle cuts and scrapes.
Disclaimer
Derek Chambers and Finchley Dog Walker are not veterinary professionals. Their advice, information, or recommendations are based on experience and general knowledge of canine care and are not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 & Exemptions Order 2015, only qualified veterinary professionals are legally permitted to diagnose, prescribe, or provide treatment for medical conditions. If you have concerns about your dog’s health or well-being, you should always seek advice from a qualified vet before taking action.
Derek Chambers and Finchley Dog Walker accept no liability for any actions taken based on the information provided.