BANDAGING AN INJURED DOG
We love our dogs but we can’t protect them all the time. In cases like our dogs get injured, it is best that we, dog owners know how to comfort them to avoid further damage. In this article, we will learn when and how to bandage our injured dog. If there is no bandaging materials available, strips of clean sheet, towels and clothing cuts will do. Remember that keeping a bandage on a dog is a bit tricky because most dogs try to remove their bandages. Do not treat dogs with larger injuries because it requires proper medical attention from a veterinarian.
How to comfort and bandage and injured dog:
Prepare all the needed materials. Collect all the necessary materials and avoid making your injured dog wait. An open wound is dangerous. It is an inviting breeding ground for bacteria. Clean the dog’s wound by flushing it with saline solution or warm water. Do not use hot water as it will make your injured dog more uncomfortable.
If your dog is not cooperative with the bandaging process, request a little assistance from a family member. If you are bandaging a puppy, ask your assistant to hold the pup by wrapping it in a towel for better control. The puppy will be easier to hold and control in this manner. After the wound has been cleaned with antibacterial soap and warm water, thoroughly rinse the area and use a clean towel to pat the wound dry. You may apply a very thin layer of triple antibiotic ointment to help prevent infection. Wrap the wound with gauze but make sure not to wrap it too tightly. Wrap a medical tape around the gauze to hold it securely in place.
Do not wrap securely a wound that is swelling. Do not wrap wounds that are bleeding profusely. Apply pressured to the injured area and take the dog to the veterinarian immediately.
Add a splint to add support. Use old newspapers and magazines. Roll up old papers to make a good splint.
The care doesn’t end there. Make sure to always check your dog’s bandages. Make sure that the bandage is dry, clean and secure – not too tight. Wrap the bandage with a plastic trash or grocery bag when your dog goes outside to poo or pee.
BUT if you suspect that your dog has fractured bone, do not try to use a bandage. Bandages and splints can cause more damage. Take your pet to the vet instead.
