How to Clean a Dog's Wound

Your poor pup has been wounded. Maybe he got into something while outside, maybe he stepped on something, or maybe he had a fight with another animal. Once you get past the initial shock and worry for your pup, you will need to clean his wound to ensure dirt, debris, and bacteria don't build up and fester causing an infection and additional pain. After cleaning your little guy’s wound, assess him for a possible trip to your veterinarian's office. Try to remain calm because he can sense your energy. It will help keep him calm as well.

If your pup has been injured, he is probably in some pain and potentially even scared. His adrenaline may be running high, and he could either be acting rather subdued or excited and anxious.

• Be sure to rinse the wound long enough for dirt and debris to wash out.
  
• Saline solution will help cleanse the tissue as well as remove debris.
  
• Hydrogen peroxide can be used on a wound but you may consider diluting it with water so it does not damage healthy tissue.
  
• Continuous monitoring of your dog’s wound can tell you how well it is healing. Watch for redness or swelling.
  
• Try to use cleansers, such as a mild soap, that will gently wash the wound but not harm healthy skin and tissue surrounding the wound.
  
• Remember your dog can become wounded by many things from articles in your yard or home or other animals.
  
• If he was wounded by another animal, bacteria left behind in the wound could cause infection and an issue much more than if wounded by glass or other objects.
  
• Keeping a close eye on the wound as it heals will help determine if you need to call your veterinarian.
  
• Take a photo of the wound once you have it cleaned so you can compare what it looks like over the next few days as it heals. This will also help your vet if you need to see him during the healing process.