Your dog’s safety is likely one of your largest concerns. When they are sick or hurt, you ensure that a licensed veterinarian sees them and meticulously cares for them during their recovery by ensuring that they receive all of the required medication. We love them with all of our hearts, and they, in turn, are completely loyal to us.
A dog owner understands that certain situations will arise, requiring immediate medical attention. Unlike humans, dogs do not have a mobile service that will come to their rescue to transport them to a medical facility safely. One or two of these services may exist, but it is doubtful that you live within the radius that they service, so you have to ensure that when your dog is in immediate danger, you do what you can to help them, and that is where doggy first aid is a huge help.
First aid is the first line of defence from infection and has been known to save lives countless times. We often do not see the need for first aid when it comes to our dogs, but rest assured, every dog owner needs to be well versed in any first aid they can gain knowledge in to help the dog. All forms of first aid are great to know, but one that is beneficial but rarely thought of is how to treat a dog who comes too close to barbed wire.
Barbed Wire Danger
Barbed wire is a common material used for a number of reasons. The most common cause is when putting up a fence. Barbed wire is put in place to keep something in or out. Whatever the case, barbed wire is used in many areas, and sometimes these areas are abandoned, leaving the dangerous material out where any animal can come in contact with it.
Dogs love to run and do not always watch where they are going. A dog running at full speed, as dogs like to do, can sometimes run them directly into barbed wire. Typical fencing is straightforward to bet out of, but the pointy aspect of barbed wire makes it difficult to remove without tearing at the skin and doing considerable damage. Should your dog become entangled in the barbed wire, you need to have this on hand to assist your dog without causing additional damage.
- Water
- Gauze
- Scissors
- Clean Cloth
- Non-stick Stretch Bandages
Treating your Dog
The dog will likely try to get himself out of the barbed wire, so ensure you approach the dog non-threateningly. Talk to him calmly and comfort the dog by petting him, preferably without barbed wire. Cut the hair away from the barbed wire with scissors parallel to the dog’s skin. Should the wound be deep, make sure that you use water to wet the scissors so the cut hair adheres to the scissors rather than falling into the wound.
Clean the wound, removing any large pieces of debris. Use saline solution during the cleaning to ensure that the wound is properly cleaned and that the risk of infection is minimized. If your wound is bleeding excessively, wrap it with gauze and apply pressure to stop the bleeding as much as possible. Apply pressure for at least five minutes and change the gauze pads accordingly.
When to Go to the Vet
Minor cuts and scrapes from barbed wire can be maintained and cleaned at home. As long as there is no puss or evidence of infection, you will likely not have to go to the Vet, but if you notice any swelling or the wound simply not healing correctly, you need to seek professional help.
Deep wounds are when there is cause for concern. If the cuts are bleeding excessively and you cannot stop the blood flow, apply a non-stick stretch bandage and get someone to drive you to the veterinarian. You will need to keep the dog as calm and comfortable as possible. Agitation can increase the blood flow, so do whatever you must to keep the dog calm. Keep constant pressure on the wound to keep blood loss to a minimum. Inform the diver to drive quickly but use caution to ensure the dog is not jostled during the ride.
Your veterinarian can stitch up the wound and prescribe any ongoing treatment medication to ensure that the healing process goes smoothly. Keep the dog from licking the wound as it heals, and most wounds will heal quickly. Your dog may also learn the value of caution while running from this experience.
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 any 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.