Book a demo of the industry-leading marketing program for veterinarians Schedule Here
Book a demo of the industry-leading marketing program for veterinarians

Care & Husbandry: Home Bandaging Guide for Dogs

Home bandaging for pets is not a substitute for professional veterinary care, and incorrectly applied bandages can lead to severe consequences, including limb loss. Bandages serve various purposes, such as protecting wounds, preventing pets from licking or irritating wounds, and providing support for strains or sprains. Proper application is crucial to prevent complications like decreased blood flow and potential limb loss.

Bandaging Process

Cleaning the Wound

Thorough Cleaning: Initiate the bandaging process by meticulously cleaning the wound. Remove dried blood, dirt, and debris using mild soap and water. Clip hair around the wound, and if possible, pat the area dry.

Materials Needed

Ideal Bandage Components

  • Contact Layer
  • Absorbent Layer
  • Outer Layer

Materials (Inner to Outer Layer)

  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Telfa Non-Adherent Pad
  • Cotton wrap
  • Gauze wrap
  • Vetrap

Bandaging Layers: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Contact Layer

Application: After cleaning, apply antibiotic ointment to the contact layer. It should be sterile, inert, absorbent, and free of particles or fibers. A Telfa Non-Adherent Pad is recommended.

2. Absorbent Layer

Usage: Apply the second (absorbent) layer to hold the contact layer snugly but not tightly. Use cotton or Dacron material in appropriate widths. Start from the toes or tip of the tail and wrap toward the body.

3. Outer Layer

Materials: Use porous adhesive or elastic tape (e.g., Elastikon, Vetrap) for the outer layer. Apply smoothly and snugly, avoiding excessive stretching, and ensure the tape is in contact with the skin (hair) at the bandage margins.

Bandage Changes

  • Frequency: Check bandages frequently for signs of swelling, skin discoloration, coolness, odor, or saturation. Replace the bandage if it appears uncomfortable or shows any issues. Bandages over heavily draining wounds may require changes every one or two hours.
  • Timeline: Bandages over wounds with minimal drainage should be changed every 24-72 hours, based on veterinary advice. Some wounds may necessitate up to 6 weeks of bandage changes for complete healing.

Conclusion: Caution in Home Bandaging

Proper bandaging is a crucial aspect of first aid for pets, but it should be approached with caution. Regular checks, adherence to recommended materials, and prompt attention to any issues are vital for successful bandage management.

Don't have a vet in your area yet? We can help you find a local veterinarian.

If you have more questions, the GeniusVets Telehealth platform will give you unlimited access to text and/or video calls with board-certified veterinarians! To learn more click here.