Open Wound Care in Dogs

My dog has a large open wound and I have been told it should not be covered. Is this correct?

Wounds vary according to:

1.  Cause, e.g. puncture wounds, abrasions and lacerations etc.

2.  Site, e.g. paws, abdomen, eyes, etc.

3.  Level of contamination, clean (surgical) wounds, contaminated (infected) etc.

Sometimes the site or the amount of skin loss precludes closure or bandaging and then the wound will be left open.

Abscesses will often be lanced under anaesthesia and then left open in order to allow proper drainage and prevent the further build up of infection.

Wherever possible a wound will be closed and sutured in order to hasten healing. However if there is gross contamination or deep infection these wounds are left open, with treatment, to ensure drainage.

How can I best manage this open wound?

When you collected your dog from the veterinarian, advice will have been given regarding home management. In order to hasten healing it is important that the wound and surrounding area is bathed to remove any crusty discharge or dried pus. This will reduce the potential for reinfection and it also helps to keep the wound edges clean and encourage healing. Removal of discharges also reduces chances of interference by the dog. It is important to try to prevent the skin from healing over the wound too quickly. This is particularly important with abscesses that have been lanced and drained surgically.  

"It is important to try to prevent the skin from healing over the wound too quickly. This is particularly important with abscesses that have been lanced and drained surgically."

How do I prevent the wound closing?

When bathing the area try to ensure that by gentle massage and traction the wound does open. You may note some discharge. Please check whether it appears to be infected, i.e. a “pussy” discharge or clear serous exudate. Either type of discharge should be allowed to drain.  

Discourage interference by your dog as much as possible. If necessary we will supply a special plastic collar which will prevent wound interference.

What shall I use to bathe the wound?

Warm saline using approximately one level teaspoonful of salt in a litre of water works well. This is because it is approximately the same concentration as plasma so it does not sting when applied to tender, sensitive areas. It also will not damage the delicate healing cells.

Can I not use mild antiseptics?

If considered necessary we will prescribe antibiotics or suitable powder or cream to apply. It is better not to use disinfectants and antiseptics which although safe for use in humans may not be suitable in this instance.