Cuts and Wounds

First aid for a wound is to first stop the bleeding and then prevent contamination. Any wound or cut that is bleeding heavily, appears hot or swollen at the sight, or appears painful needs emergency treatment. It is important to properly restrain your pet. Use a muzzle or make a temporary muzzle out of a scarf or other long material. To make a temporary muzzle make a loop in the scarf. Stand behind the dog and slip the loop over the dog’s nose with the loop on the top of the nose. Crisscross the scarf under the dog’s nose and then make a bow behind the ears. Never leave your dog unattended while muzzled and don’t leave it on for longer than needed.

Safely handling a dog in an emergency

To stop or control the bleeding you need to apply direct pressure using sterile or clean gauge sponge or cloth. Do not keep lifting the gauze to check the wound; it will disrupt the clotting process. If blood soaks through, keep adding more gauge over the soaked material. The pressure you apply should not be so intense as to stop circulation. If the area becomes swollen, reduce the pressure because you are cutting off circulation. If the cut is on the leg and is severely bleeding, you can put a tourniquet above the wound between the wound and the dog’s heart. Use a t-shirt, sheet or towel. Release the tourniquet every 10 minutes to allow circulation.

If possible, elevate the wound. If the bleeding is severe apply direct pressure to the arteries that supply the affected area. These points are located at the upper inside of the front legs (armpits), the upper inside of the hind legs and the underside of the tail. Stop applying pressure every few minutes to restore blood circulation.

To prevent contamination you should use a clean, protective dressing. Do not use cotton batting directly on the wound since the fibers will contaminate the wound.

If the wound is minor, gently cleanse with soap and warm water or an antiseptic like hydrogen peroxide and gently pat dry. Carefully clip away the hair and apply an antiseptic or antibiotic (Neosporin ) followed by a dressing. Be careful not to restrict the circulation.

If your pet excessively licks the wound, you will need a protective collar (looks like a lampshade). These are available at a pet supply.

If the wound is major, simply apply the dressing and contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic..

For bite wounds always have your veterinarian see the wound. Wash the wound with soap and water and then apply 3% hydrogen peroxide. Your veterinarian will possibly prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.