First Aid for Lacerations in Dogs

Seeing your dog bleeding can be a frightening experience, and lacerations can range from mild to life-threatening. It is critical for a dog owner to learn the difference between these two extremes, along with when to seek medical attention and what to do in the meantime. In some cases, at-home care is enough, but only for those who are familiar with basic first aid.

  1. Cleaning the Wound

    • Even the nicest of dogs can bite when injured, so have someone help by holding the dog.

      One of the biggest dangers in lacerations in dogs is infection, and preventing that starts from the moment the accident happens. Bleeding helps wash bacteria and dirt from the wound, and if the bleeding isn't too bad, you can take the time to clean the wound before bandaging. Run warm water over the wound to clean out any dirt or debris that is left in it. This also will allow you to examine the laceration to see how deep the cut is. Deep cuts -- those that go through all layers of skin -- can require stitches, but for the moment concentrate on cleaning the wound. For shallow lacerations, apply a disinfectant like saline or an antibiotic cream to the wound to prevent the development of an infection.

    Bleeding and Bandaging

    • If the laceration bleeds severely, place a cloth over the wound and apply pressure. Continue to do so while getting medical attention. If the wound is bleeding severely enough to soak through cloths, it can be life-threatening. For more controlled bleeding, apply pressure to the wound until it slows and finally stops -- this can take up to half an hour. Once the bleeding has stopped, apply a sterile bandage over the wound and wrap it tight enough to put slight pressure on the wound but not tight enough to cause discomfort or cut off circulation. In cases where the bleeding does not stop or slow, elevating the level of the wound above the dog's heart can help.

    Complex Lacerations

    • Having someone help to hold the dog and someone else to drive is ideal.

      Complex lacerations are those that tear the skin rather than cut it cleanly. They are usually deep, going through all the layers of skin rather than just the top. For these types of lacerations, first aid is critical and bridges the gap between the injury and veterinary attention. The veterinarian will be the one to decide whether or not drains or stitches are necessary, but getting the dog to medical attention as quickly as possible is key. In the meantime, apply continuous pressure on the wound with any type of material handy. Add more shirts, towels or bandages as necessary, but be sure the pressure always stays on. Having someone lend a hand is crucial, as the pressure should be kept on while the dog is being taken to the emergency room. If there isn't someone to help, tie the bandage to hold it in place while transporting the dog.

    Complications and When to Seek Help

    • The color of the blood coming from the wound can indicate what damage has been done. Veins that have been severed take blood back to the heart, and bleed in a dark red color. Arteries, which are responsible for taking oxygenated blood to the rest of the body, bleed bright red when cut; these wounds should always receive professional attention. If there is an object lodged in the wound, don't remove it, as it can increase the bleeding. The blood loss and pain can cause the dog to go into shock, so immediate, professional attention is key.