How to Treat Minor Scrapes on Dogs

Dogs are active and often rambunctious animals that love to play outside and with other dogs. As a result, they can easily hurt themselves by rough housing with other dogs, and get minor scrapes and cuts from exploring. Treating your dog for a minor scrape or cut is easy as long as the cut is at least 1 inch long and isn't considered a puncture wound. Puncture wounds can be deep and will need to be treated by a veterinarian.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog clippers
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 2 cups warm water
  • Topical antibacterial cream
  • Dry rag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Using animal clippers, clip the fur around the wound. Make sure that no falling hair gets into the wound.

    • 2

      Mix 1 tsp. of salt and 2 cups of warm water. Pour the mixture over the scrape to clean it. Pat the wound gently with a towel to dry it.

    • 3

      Apply an antibiotic topical cream according to the directions on the box several times a day.

    • 4

      If your dog bites or constantly licks the wound, use an e-collar to stop them from doing so. This will allow the wound to heal quicker.

    • 5

      Wounds that become red, swollen, or drain fluid that isn't clear, or has an odor should be seen by a veterinarian.