My dog has an open wound after surgery, how do I care for it?

Question

+What is an appropriate wound care regimen for the open wound in the photo? Wound is 14 days post surgery to treat a bite by a black bear. The wound was originally closed after debridement but significant necrosis developed after. Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | neutered | 4 years old | 12 lbs

Stacey Anstaett, DVM · Accepted Answer

Usually these wounds are best managed with a "wet to dry" bandage method. This is a process where a sterile, moist dressing (usually using sterile saline) is applied directly against the wound, and then dry bandage material is placed over it, and the dressing is then secured in place often with a tie over bandage. This type of bandage should be changed daily. Once a good bed of what we call "granulation tissue" has developed (as in the second picture), and the skin edges are close enough to close, then the skin edges can be brought together and closed. Depending on the individual and on the size of the wound, this can take anywhere from a couple of days, to a week or more. I hope that is helpful for you, if you have any specific questions about Jack's case, feel free to request a consultation. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

My dog has an open wound after surgery, how do I care for it?

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