A dog can break a toe in an accident, if it gets stomped on, if it gets caught in a fence or if he stubs it. Some toes are weight-bearing and others are not. All broken toes should be examined by a veterinarian who likely will wrap it and perhaps splint it if the dog is large and heavy. If a foot or leg is bandaged too tightly, the circulation can be cut off and the toe could be lost. You probably will have to change the bandaging at home on a regular basis if it gets soiled or if the dog manages to pull or chew it off.
Things You'll Need
- Cotton wool
- Stretchy gauze bandaging
- Water-resistant bandaging or vet wrap
- Scissors
- Medical tape
- Muzzle
Instructions
Muzzle the dog because a dog in pain will bite even if he normally is kind and loving. Lay him on his side with the injured leg on top. Get a helper to restrain the dog and raise and support the injured leg while you work on it.
Gently remove the existing bandage if you are doing a rewrap. Check there is no dirt, hair or infection if the broken toe also includes an open wound. Clean any blood or pus gently with damp cotton wool and return the dog to the vet if there appears to be any infection.
Gently place strips of cotton wool between the toes if the broken toe is weight-bearing. Wrap cotton wool around the paw and leg beginning at the bottom. Unroll it as you work upward. For smaller dogs make sure it is wrapped at least to the middle joint while larger dogs can be wrapped higher.
Wrap the stretchy gauze bandaging over the cotton wool beginning at the foot and working up. Do not wrap it too tightly or you will restrict circulation, which can cause permanent damage. Cut the bandage with scissors when you have finished. Make sure the foot and leg is well-cushioned and protected.
Wrap water-resistant bandaging over the existing bandage working from the foot upward. Do not make it too tight. Finish at the back of the leg and cut with a scissors. Wrap medical tape around the top and bottom of the bandaged area to hold it in place.