Rose Perry
Dogs are highly curious pets. They are often quick to run towards interesting finds. They can squeeze into tight or bushy places. And they have no problem making their way through obstacles.
And that’s why they can come back to you with all sorts of cuts. Yes, seeing your dog with scratches, cuts, and all sorts of abrasion is an ordinary thing.
Now you may be asking what’s the best thing to do whenever your dog gets a cut. Well, we go into all that below. So read on for valuable information.
Assess How Serious the Cut Is
Not all cuts need a visit to the nearest vet or animal hospital. Most of the time, you’d probably need to do some simple home care. What cuts can you treat at home?
- Light cuts that don’t open much and show tissue or bone.
- Cuts that don’t bleed much.
- Thin cuts that don’t need stitching
- Small or short cuts
- Superficial cuts
- Cuts that aren’t located in delicate areas
- Cuts that get infected and develop an abnormal smell.
Cuts that run too deep or won’t stop bleeding need professional tending to. So are cuts that are dangerously near or within the eye or nose. It’s best to take your dog to the vet if those are the case.
Treat the Cut Properly
Here are ways to properly treat a cut:
- If your dog got too dirty, you may need to clean it up first. This ensures that the cut won’t develop an infection from dirt.
- Apply pressure to the cut using a clean rag or towel. This stops the bleeding.
- At times, splashing saline water may do. Other times, you may need to apply some hydrogen peroxide or betadine.
- Wrap if and when necessary. Some cuts need wrapping. Do so if it’s possible. And make sure it’s not too tightly wrapped, so you don’t restrict proper circulation.
- Apply an antibiotic if needed. Some cuts go a bit deep and you may need antibiotics for that. Do so whenever it’s necessary.
Know When to Take Your Dog to the Vet for Treatment
Sometimes, a cut may worsen. In that case, you should seek medical treatment for your dog immediately. Here are signs to watch out for:
- Cuts that get infected
- Cuts that won’t heal or cuts that bleed continuously
- Cuts that turn red or swell
- Loss of appetite in your dog
- Fever in your dog
- Lethargy in your dog.
Let Your Dog Recover in a Clean Area
Clean your pet dog’s rest area. Wash its beddings and playthings. If it loves laying on the lounge carpet, then vacuum that carpet often.
It’s safer to keep your pet indoors during the recovery. This way, the cut won’t catch any bacteria or dirt that could spark an infection. But if you must let it play out in the yard, limit the time spent. Also, remember to clear all areas of potential hazards and dusty objects.
Other Tips for Faster Recovery
Clean the cut once daily. Also, watch that your dog doesn’t lick the cut. You may need to buy an Elizabethan collar to ensure this.
Make sure to deliver prescribed medicines at their appointed times. Be consistent and try not to miss a dose, especially for antibiotics.
Final Thoughts
Cuts are normal, especially when your dog is active and playful. Apply simple home care treatments if it’s possible. But if things get more serious, let the veterinarian handle it for you. This way, your pet dog’s cut won’t worsen. Instead, it will heal faster.