Tips on Changing a Pet's Bandages

The process of changing your pet's bandage sounds simple on the surface but can sometimes be challenging because of the type and location of the injury, and the temperament of your pet. Pets are not always cooperative with the process and will do such things as rip the bandage off, lick the wound or get it dirty. It is essential to remain diligent; bandages serve many purposes such as protecting the wound from infection and stabilization.

  1. Prevent Infection

    • The most important tip in changing bandages is to keep the wound dry and clean. This may require changing the bandage three times per day. A moist bandage can lead to infection. Always wash your hands before applying fresh bandages. Watch for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling and pus that is yellowish or greenish. Contact your veterinarian if the wound appears to be getting worse; it may require antibiotics.

    Supplies

    • It is essential to have everything on hand, such as scissors, gauze, non-stick pads, adhesive tape, self-adhesive wraps, antibiotic ointment or antiseptic, when changing bandages. Pets generally feel uncomfortable with the process, so changing it quickly and as easily as possible will reduce the stress level. When applying bandages make sure it is not too loose or too tight. If it is too loose, it will come off and expose the wound to dirt. A tight bandage could cut off your pet's circulation. Make sure that you can get two fingers under the bandage when applied.

    Elizabethan Collar

    • The collar will quickly become your best friend in protecting your pet from gaining access to its bandage. It is a round, clear plastic cone that fits around your pet's neck and extends to the nose preventing your pet from gaining access to the bandage. This is a useful tool when changing bandages; it gives you full access to the injury and prevents your pet from interfering. Pets can do a lot of damage to an injury if allowed access it, they can scratch it trying to pull off a bandage or lick the wound, aggravating it.

    Veterinarian

    • If your pet is so uncooperative that you cannot change the bandage, contact your veterinarian. The veterinarian's office staff can change your pet's bandage for you in the office and provide some additional guidance and support. Additional support may include such things as bandaging techniques, prescribing medications to relax your pet or how to use an Elizabethan collar or muzzle. In some cases, it may be necessary to board your pet at the veterinarian's office until the pet can be stabilized.