Treating Dog Injuries

Bleeding Wounds

The first step in treating a bleeding dog wound is to be careful that the dog does not bite. Talk very softy and gently to the dog to calm it down. If possible, get someone to hold the dog's head while treating the wound. Apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth to stop the flow of blood. Major wounds require a trip to the vet, but if the would is minor trim away the fur and treat the wound with antibiotic ointment. Repeat this application for two or three days.

Insect Bites and Stings

If the dog has been stung by a bee and it is possible to remove the stinger, do so very carefully by scraping it free. Make a paste from baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area to offer pain relief. Bug bites can be treated with over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or an antihistamine. Just make sure you prevent the animal from licking the cream for at least 10 minutes to ensure it has enough time to work.

Licking

If the injury to the dog results in a sore, he will be tempted to lick the wound. Contrary to popular belief, licking doesn't actually serve to heal wounds and sores. In fact, if the dog persists in licking a wound he can actually make it worse and bring on infection. Vets use that familiar collar to prohibit dogs from licking at serious wounds and stitches, and you can make a homemade collar from a large ice cream container or a plastic bucket by creating a hole in the bottom. It may be easier, however, to simply spray something bitter around the sore to inhibit licking.

Transporting

In many cases you will need to move an injured dog and get him to the vet. Special care is required when moving a dog not only for the sake of the dog but your own safety as well. Dogs often will try to squirm away, so try to avoid twisting the dog's limbs to keep it from getting away as this could further an injury. If the dog requires a stretcher to be moved safely, this can be made from an ironing board or even a removable shelf from a bookcase. You can secure the dog to this makeshift stretcher with soft rope or even with neckties or ripped towels or sheets. It is imperative that the dog's neck remain extended while on a stretcher in order to ensure that he can breathe.

Burns

The best treatment for burns is to rinse the afflicted area in cold water for 5 minutes and then head straight for the vet. Do not apply butter or any kind of ointment and avoid touching the burned area as much as possible.