My dog has a cut. How do I prevent infection and care for it at home?

Question

My almost 8 month old blonde pit bull/lab mix named Ares cut himself on his right shoulder overnight and we’re not sure how (there’s a wooden fence covering the large backyard and a few saplings as well as a brown couch he lays on and his little plastic house/igloo) and what to do. Is there anything we can do at home to prevent infection? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 8 months and 21 days old | 50 lbs

Rebecca, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If at all possible I recommend a vet visit to see if this wound could be closed. Suturing it closed may allow much faster healing than leaving it open. Otherwise be sure to keep it clean and dry. You can use an antiseptic like betadine or chlorhexidine once to clean it. Be sure to dilute cleaner then rinse well. Use just today or if the wound gets extremely dirty. Using daily can actually slow healing. Keep the area clean and dry. I recommend Ares stay primarily indoors until it is closed as he could get a maggot infestation of flies lay eggs on the wound. Using hydrotherapy or gentle water from a hose is a good way to keep it clean. If there is swelling, discharge or pain, Ares needs to see a vet for medications. I hope he heals quickly.

My dog has a cut. How do I prevent infection and care for it at home?

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