CANINE FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY CARE

By: Dr. Mike Lappin, DVM

INJURIES TO THE SKIN

Injuries to the skin are commonly associated with some type of trauma:
Lacerations -- (cuts) from sharp objects.
Abrasions -- (scrapes) like road burns.
Punctures -- blunt objects, projectiles.
Burns.

Symptoms:
1. Damage to skin
2. Openings through skin, exposing tissue below
3. Bleeding

First Aid Treatment:
1. Abrasions, clean area if dirty and apply topical antibiotic
2. Lacerations clean (irrigate) stop bleeding, protection of area, if sutures are needed to vet.
3. Punctures, cover and protect, stop bleeding, see vet if you believe there is anything inside of wound.
4. Wounds involving chest may compromise respiratory function if chest cavity is invaded.
"Sucking" chest wound -- cover with non-porous material, and transport
5. Tail wounds bandage and tape to fur.
6. Sutures usually required if wound is more that 1/2 - 1 inch long or gaping.