Treating your dog’s cuts and scrapes

Taking care of your pooch’s nicks is not much different than treating the same scratches in humans. As a matter of fact, the most important thing is to determine the severity of the cut or scrape in order for you to identify the proper care or treatment.

More often than not, cuts and scrapes are simple to care for at home. The seriousness of the wound is the primary indicator of the need for treatment. Ask yourself whether the cut is very deep, long, or does Fido have multiple scrapes.

When to See your Vet

Video: Collapsed dog rescued with life-threatening wounds makes amazing recovery

You will know a vet visit is necessary if the cut is at least half an inch deep or deeper, or, half an inch long or longer. Though this kind of nick is mildly severe, special care is still required. Usually, this type of cut will need one stitch or more at the minimum. Once you have decided to take Fido to the clinic, do not try to treat the cut yourself. The staff at your vet’s office are well-trained and equipped enough to handle the problem properly.

When to Apply Pressure

If the cut or scrape bleeds profusely, immediately apply pressure with a clean cloth. This way, you can stop the bleeding before you run off to your vet’s clinic. Bear in mind that a dog’s skin hardly ever bleeds excessively unless the cut is very serious. The profuse bleeding will be your warning sign that your pooch needs professional care and treatment.

Minor cuts and scrapes, nevertheless, rarely require a temporary bandage or dressing. Normally, they need nothing more than just a quick inspection, and a thorough cleansing. As a matter of fact, any scratch that has not penetrated Fido’s skin below its surface is considered to be minor in severity.

How to Treat Fido’s Cuts and Scrapes

Once you decide it’s ok to care for your pooch’s wound on your own, just apply a mild antiseptic solution for cut cleaning. Ideally, you should try trimming Fido’s fur away from the injured part in order for you to see the cut more clearly. However, this is not very necessary with just a minor cut or scrape.

Video: Small Cut on a Dog Repaired With Glue

Over the next few days, observe the afflicted part for any sign of swelling or redness to make sure that the cut is healing accordingly. Any indication suggesting that the wound is not recovering properly may mean that it’s time for you to go see your vet.

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always a good idea to let your dog lick his own wounds. In fact, too much licking can cause a small, insignificant scrape or cut to become much worse. Do your best to keep your pup’s curious tongue away from cuts and scrapes.

Taking care of your pooch’s nicks is not very much different when treating the same scratches in humans. As a matter of fact, the most vital aspect remains being able to determine the severity of the cut or scrape in order for you to identify the proper care or treatment.

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