Dog wounds: How to treat them and when to see a vet
It’s not uncommon for dogs to suffer from various types of wounds. Wounds can vary in severity and complexity, which affects how they should be managed. They can happen in many ways, such as your dog cutting themselves on glass or other sharp objects, or from a dog fight.
Minor wounds and scratches on your dog
Small, superficial wounds and scratches that haven't broken the skin can usually be treated at home.
Clip the fur around the wound
Clean the area with a chlorhexidine solution
Fit your dog with a cone (Elizabethan collar) to prevent them from licking or chewing the wound.
It’s important to use the right products to clean your dog’s wounds. Some disinfectants designed for humans, such as those containingOctenidine , should never be used on animals. These, and other antiseptic products from the same brand, can cause tissue damage, especially on deeper wounds. In severe cases, this can lead to necrosis (tissue death).
If you’re treating a wound at home, keep a close eye on it. If it’s not healing, or if it looks swollen, red, sore, or is discharging fluid, take your dog to the vet for an examination.
Deep wounds in dogs
If your dog has a deep wound that has penetrated the full thickness of the skin, you must contact your vet immediately, even if they aren’t showing signs of pain. You should also seek veterinary help if the wound is near the eyes, looks like it needs stitches, or is a puncture wound.
Make it a habit to regularly feel your dog’s skin and paws to detect any wounds early on. This helps them get the treatment they need sooner, before the wound has a chance to become infected. If you’re unsure about how best to treat your dog’s wounds, we recommend contacting a vet via video call – an unlimited service for Lassie insurance customers.
