How to Fix the Injured Wing of a Dove

Quality treatment and care can save a dove from an injured or broken wing. There are debates among wildlife rescuers, veterinarians and the public if a bird with a broken wing should be euthanized or nurtured. Many assume that a bird without flight will have trouble escaping predators, finding food and making nests. Unfortunately, this thought has led to the death of many birds and doves. A dove can be released in the wild after the wing is healed, or it can live a comfortable tamed life.

Things You'll Need

  • Large fish tank
  • Betadine
  • Gauze pads
  • Baking soda, cornstarch or flour
  • Cotton ball
  • Medical tape or masking tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put a large, empty fish tank in a quiet room. Lay a towel at the bottom of the fish tank.

    • 2

      Place the dove inside the fish tank. Examine the wing for blood and wounds.

    • 3

      Apply betadine on the wounds with a gauze pad, and rinse off with water. Put antibiotic ointment on the wounds. Apply baking soda, cornstarch or flour if there is constant bleeding, and put pressure on the bleeding with a cotton ball.

    • 4
      Medical tape and masking tape will not ruin the wings.

      Cut 12 inches of medical tape or masking tape.

    • 5
      Place the wing in a natural position so it will heal correctly.

      Hold the wing of the dove against its body in a natural position.

    • 6

      Wrap the tape around the outside of the wing and around the body. The midsection of the dove will be wrapped in tape, except the uninjured wing.

    • 7

      Put the dove inside the large fish tank, and change the tape once weekly until healed. The wing will heal in three to four weeks.