When a dog has a wet wound, whether it's from an accident or from surgery, the animal's instincts will make it try to lick the wound. Unfortunately, this can actually reopen the wound and lead to infection. Funnels or leashes are classic tools that can be used to prevent dogs from licking their own wounds. You can also cover the wound with a bandage or cloth. In addition to using these tools, you also need to distract your dog from thinking about the wound while it's healing.
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Method 1 of 3: Using a Leash
Step 1. Measure the dog's neck carefully
Use a tape measure to measure your dog's neck circumference. If you don't have one, use shoelaces, then match the length with a regular ruler. For the harness type, you will need to measure the distance between the dog's neck at the chin and the shoulder.
- Funnels and leashes usually need to be a little tight so the dog can't take them off. These products have different sizes and installation instructions.
- Keep the shape of your leashes in mind when measuring funnels or other leashes. Some types of leashes cannot be attached to leashes without a hook that must be inserted directly from the top of the dog's head.
Step 2. Adjust the size of the funnel for your dog
A plastic funnel, otherwise known as an “Elizabethan” collar, is an object that has long been used to prevent dogs from licking their own wounds. Using these items is usually the vet's first preventive measure. Transparent mouthpieces are less scary to dogs than opaque mouthpieces because dogs can't see outside.
- Watch your dog when wearing an Elizabethan collar. This collar makes the dog unable to see clearly so he will appear more careless than usual.
- Your dog will still be able to eat and drink while wearing the collar, but he will need time to adapt and will not like it. Supervise the dog and make sure he can eat and drink. If he doesn't want to do it while wearing the mouthpiece, try another type of restraint or remove the mouthpiece while he is eating.
- If you are out of the house long enough, for example to go to school or work, it's a good idea to cage a dog wearing an Elizabethan collar so he doesn't hurt himself.
Tips:
Since Elizabethan collars are quite wide, dogs may get caught or have difficulty walking in tight areas of the house. You may need to rearrange the furniture in your home to make it easier for your dog to roam.
Step 3. Try a soft necklace or an inflated necklace if the mouthpiece doesn't fit
The hard plastic mouthpiece can restrict your dog's movement or make it difficult for him to fall asleep. Some dogs even refuse to use plastic funnels and try to destroy them. A soft collar or inflated collar may be more suitable for the dog.
- Most of these alternative leashes are not suitable for long-nosed and small-necked dogs, such as greyhounds or dobermans.
- Some types of inflatable necklaces are very easy to leak. So, this thing is not effective for dogs who like to scratch the collar.
Step 4. Try a few different options
There are many different types of dog collars and mouthpieces available at pet stores or online stores. It's hard to guess which is the best choice before trying it yourself. A leash that you don't think is right for your dog may be the most comfortable choice for him.
- If you're looking for the collar at a pet store, you can bring your pet dog to try it on right away. If not, buy several variants of the necklace and return the unused item to the store.
- Keep in mind that the size of your dog's mouthpiece depends largely on the type and size of the wound. For example, if your dog has recently had eye surgery, simply use a small mouthpiece to prevent him from scratching his eyes. However, if the dog is injured in the tail, you will need to use a larger mouthpiece to prevent him from reaching the tail.
Step 5. Use a safety frame if the dog keeps removing the mouthpiece
Some dogs insist on removing the mouthpiece from their neck and won't stop until the mouthpiece is completely crushed. If your dog does this, you can use a harness similar to a human neck brace.
- The size of the harness is determined by the length of the dog's neck, not the width. If your dog has a very long neck, such as a greyhound, or a very short neck, such as a pug, this brace may not be very effective.
- If the dog is injured in the front paw, the harness will not prevent it from licking the wound on its own.
Method 2 of 3: Covering the Wound
Step 1. Clean the wound carefully before applying the bandage
Use warm water or a wound cleanser to get rid of bacteria. You can make your own wound cleanser by mixing 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of salt with 2 cups (500 ml) of water.
- Your vet may recommend using certain soaps or cleaning fluids to treat the wound. Use products recommended by your veterinarian. Do not use soaps, disinfectants, or other cleaners designed for humans. These products can irritate your dog's skin and hinder the healing process.
- After cleaning the wound, gently pat it dry before applying the ointment or bandage.
Step 2. Apply a vet-prescribed lotion or ointment
Your vet may prescribe a lotion or ointment to heal your dog's wounds. Apply the medicine immediately after the wound is cleaned, then let it dry before applying the bandage.
If your dog continues to lick the ointment clean, apply it when the dog is about to eat to distract him. After eating, he had most likely forgotten about the ointment
Step 3. Choose a bandage specially designed for the injured body part
Dog bandages come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the size and location of the injured body. The bandage should be large enough to cover the entire wound and easy to apply.
- For wounds on a dog's leg, there is a special bandage shaped like a sleeve or shoe.
- Use a special tape to attach the bandage to the dog's body.
Step 4. Spray the “anti-lick” liquid onto the bandage
These sprays can be purchased at pet stores or online. This item is designed to prevent the dog from licking the wound or chewing on the bandage used to cover it. In general, these sprays have such a disgusting taste that dogs don't want to lick them.
This spray is not effective for some dog breeds. Some dogs will continue to lick it even if it's disgusting, then tear off the bandage to lick the wound
Step 5. Use cloth sleeves or protective clothing to cover the bandaged area of the body
In addition to the bandage, you may need to apply another layer to protect the wound on the dog's body. There are "sleeve" shaped fabrics sold at pet stores specifically for this need. You can also make your own from used clothes.
- For example, a pantyhose cut at the toes can be used to cover a leg wound, or even a small dog wound.
- You can also use a T-shirt, shorts, sweater, or baby clothes to cover the area.
Variation:
If you have a dog coat or sweater that your pet likes, it can make a good wound dressing – especially a wound in the torso.
Step 6. Change the dog bandage every 2 or 3 days
Remove the bandage, then clean the wound. Check the bandage for any fluid that has settled. If the wound continues to bleed or pus smells bad, take your dog back to the vet – the wound may become infected.
- Veterinarians will usually give different instructions for cleaning the dog's wound and changing the bandage. If you want to do something different, talk to your vet first.
- Look online for various types of dog wound protective clothing, such as "sleeves" or T-shirts.
Method 3 of 3: Distracting Dogs
Step 1. Take the dog for a walk after installing the mouthpiece
A leisurely walk with your dog can help him focus, and strengthen your relationship as owner and pet. This is especially important when your dog is wearing a mouthpiece or leashes because he needs a chance to adapt.
- Most dogs can adapt to the protective funnel within an hour as long as they feel safe. Keep the dog on the leash, then talk to him in a soothing voice.
- When your dog is wearing a mouthpiece or leashes, keep him on a leash when walking him out.
Step 2. Wait 7 to 14 days before trying other distraction techniques
Limit your dog's activities until the wound is partially healed – especially if your dog has recently had surgery. You don't want the wound to re-open or become infected during activities.
Ask your vet how long you have to wait until your dog is free to run around without a leash. Based on the location and severity of the wound, your doctor may suggest that you wait longer
Step 3. Hide dry food as a snack
If you give him food, he will eat it right away without a second thought. However, by hiding biscuits and dry food around the house, the dog will feel challenged and forget for a moment the wound.
- This distraction technique is especially effective if you have a hunting dog or any dog with hunting instincts.
- Remember where you hid the food so it can be picked up and disposed of properly if your dog can't find it within a day or so.
Step 4. Train the dog to perform new tricks
If your dog enjoys learning different tasks and tricks, you can use this as a distraction so he doesn't lick his wound. Choose tricks that are challenging, but can be mastered over time.
Avoid tricks that require your dog to move around a lot, especially if the wound is still healing. For example, you can train your dog to do sit ups or beg, but don't train him to jump to catch a frisbee
Tips:
You can also give your dog a favorite toy, or take him to buy a new one at your local pet store. Make sure you give him lots of attention while he's healing so he doesn't lick it.
Step 5. Freeze the meat sauce or stock until it becomes ice cubes for the dog to chase after
If your dog likes to chase ice cubes, he will surely enjoy playing with ice cubes from gravy or meat broth. When the dog is busy chasing ice cubes, he will forget the desire to lick the wound.
