Care of Open Wounds in Dogs

What is a wound?

A wound is any damage to the skin and/or the underlying tissues. It can be an open wound, such as a cut, or a closed wound, such as a contusion or bruise.

What should I do if my dog’s wound is bleeding?

If your dog’s wound is bleeding, you should attempt to stop the bleeding by applying direct pressure to the wound with an absorbent dressing, such as dry gauze, followed by a layer of bandage material or a clean, dry cloth. These layers will protect the wound during transport to the veterinary clinic and prevent further contamination of the injury.

If possible, try to raise the affected area above the level of the heart to help reduce the flow of blood to the bleeding area. Do not apply ointments, creams, disinfectants, or any other chemicals to the wound (unless directed by your veterinarian), as they can interfere with healing.

Why are some wounds left open to heal?

Sometimes, the wound location or the amount of skin loss prevents surgical closure or bandaging (e.g., wounds on the face or high on the leg). Puncture wounds or other trauma can force bacteria deep into the tissues, and a contaminated wound that is more than a few hours old should never be closed without surgical debridement (removal of all contaminated or dead tissue). In some cases, closing the wound may result in more permanent damage than treating the wound medically and leaving it open to heal (called healing by second intention).

How will my dog’s wound be treated?

Abscesses may be lanced and cleaned under heavy sedation or anesthesia. A latex drain will be placed to prevent the wound from closing too quickly to allow proper drainage and prevent further build-up of infection.

Wherever possible, a wound will be closed and sutured to speed healing. However, if there is gross contamination or deep infection present, the wound will be left open for topical treatment and to ensure drainage. Your veterinarian may need to anesthetize your dog to remove foreign material and dead tissue from the wound. If the wound cannot be surgically closed, your veterinarian may apply a protective bandage, if possible. Your dog will also receive oral or injectable antibiotics.

How should I care for my dog’s open wound?

Your veterinarian will provide you with specific instructions. Some general care guidelines include the following:

• Gently clean the wound and surrounding area to remove any debris. This will keep the wound edges clean, reduce the potential for re-infection, and allow new healthy tissue to develop.
• Administer all medications as prescribed. Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics or antibiotic cream to apply to the wound. Do not discontinue antibiotics for any reason, unless you have been instructed to do so by your veterinarian.
• Do not allow your dog to lick or chew the open wound. Many dogs will require a protective collar (an Elizabethan collar or e-collar) to prevent them from injuring the site. Other options, depending on the location of the wound, include covering the wound with a bandage, a stockinette, a dog coat, or a t-shirt.
• If the wound is bandaged, daily bandage changes may be required (as demonstrated by your veterinarian).

How do I prevent the wound from closing too early?

When cleaning the wound, gently massage the surrounding skin to open the wound and promote drainage. You may see some discharge or bleeding when you do this. Make note of whether the discharge is thick or colored (appears infected) or a clear, thin fluid. Remove any discharge or allow it to drain away. If the discharge continues to be bloody, green, or yellow for several consecutive days, contact your veterinarian for instructions.

What should I clean the wound with?

Warm tap water is recommended for cleaning most wounds. Warm saline (salt solution) may also be used. You can make saline by adding approximately one level teaspoon (5 mL) of salt or Epsom salt to two cups (500 mL) of water. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend using a dilute cleansing solution of chlorhexidine, a surgical soap, or an iodine solution to help remove debris.

Do not use soaps, shampoos, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, herbal preparations, tea tree oil, or any other product to clean an open wound, unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian. Some of these products are toxic if taken internally, while others can delay healing.

Is pain medication required?

Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to relieve pain and discomfort. Once a wound has begun to heal, it is no longer as painful. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as meloxicam (Metacam®), deracoxib (Deramaxx®), or carprofen (Rimadyl®) are often prescribed.