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Why did my dog get a rash from Ehmer sling tape? Should vet use gauze?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 4 years and 8 months old | 66.9 lbs

My German Shepherd named Chelsea recenty had a dislocated hip. The doctor prescribed her pain meds and anxiety pills, as well as an ehmer sling ( we did the closed surgery method) they taped her hip in place around her stomach and as a result she has a huge rash on her stomach from the constant contact of the tape to her sensitive skin on her stomach. The rash is clearly uncomfortable, and my question is why didn't the vet put gauze or a towel on her stomach before taping it? Thanks...

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 1st, 2017

Typically, gauze isn't placed under the tape unless there is cut or wound that needs protection. That's because you want the tape anchored firmly to the skin to help keep the ehmer sling in place, which is vital to her healing process. Because she has a huge rash in that area, I would take Chelsea back into the vet. The vet can give you medication for the rash, and may re-tape the sling with gauze under the tape to protect her skin.

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    I'm sorry that Chelsea is having this problem! Without being able to see the wrap, it's hard to say why your veterinarian chose to place the sling this way. Generally speaking, Ehmer sling are quite difficult to place comfortably and often cause some rubbing of the skin - every vet has their own way of placing them, but they often need to be adjusted if they are causing discomfort :) It's also possible that she could be allergic to the type of tape adhesive that was used - this can sometimes happen with dogs who have sensitive skin. Since Chelsea has a rash and seems uncomfortable, I would recommend calling your veterinarian or bringing her back in for a recheck - the sling may need to be adjusted, or a different type of tape may need to be used.

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