How to Protect a Sore on a Dog's Toe
Dogs can find numerous ways of injuring their paws. Their paws carry them everywhere, and are exposed to all kinds of hazards. Even the dog's nails, if not properly maintained, can grow too long and break off or even curl around and penetrate the dog's toe. After removing whatever it is that has caused the sore toe on your dog, treat the sore carefully to protect it and allow it to heal.
Things You'll Need
- Saline solution
- Muzzle
- Antibacterial ointment
- Gauze pad
- Cotton wrap
- Self-adhesive wrap
Instructions
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Wash the sore with a saline solution that can be purchased at your local drugstore. Work carefully. If your dog threatens to bite, muzzle him with a well-fitted and humane muzzle while you work. This protects both of you.
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2
Apply an antibacterial salve or ointment to the sore to speed healing and reduce the possibility of infection.
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Apply a gauze bandage large enough to fully cover the sore. The gauze pad can also cover the whole pad of the dog's paw to make it more comfortable for it to walk if the sore is on the bottom of the toe. If it is on the top of the toe, place the pad on the top of the paw.
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Secure the pad in place with cotton wrap, taking the wrap part way up the dog's leg to help secure it. Start over the gauze pad, and wind the wrap gently around the foot and leg, slightly overlapping it. Take it back down in the same way and finish over the gauze pad.
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Secure with a self-adhesive wrap or bandage, using the same wrapping method as with the cotton wrap.
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Tips & Warnings
Change the bandage and redress the sore twice daily. Check for any oozing or foul odor that may indicate infection.
Provide your dog with boots to prevent future sores.
In the case of any sign of infection, take your dog to the vet for treatment.
If the sore is large or gaping, it may need stitches and the dog should be taken to a vet for treatment.
If a foreign object is in the sore, or you suspect there may be, take the dog to a vet to have it removed.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Une patte sur le parquet image by MaxLeMans from Fotolia.com
