Wrapping Puppy Paws After an Injury

Knowing how to care for a puppy̵7;s injured paw is essential for a dog owner. If your dog companion walks or runs on rough terrains, he may get cuts and bruises on his paws. To avoid infections and to promote healing, proper care and bandaging of the effected paw is required.

  1. Examining the Paw

    • If you suspect a paw injury, examine your puppy's paw. Look and feel between his toes for lodged foreign objects. Turn his paw around and inspect the paw pad for cuts or punctures. If the injury is substantial and bleeds heavily, take your dog companion to a veterinarian or seek emergency care. The paw may need sutures to stop the bleeding. To remove an object lodged in the surface of your puppy's paw pad, sterilize a pair of tweezers with alcohol and carefully take it out.

    Cleaning the Wound

    • Cleaning your puppy's wound helps remove bacteria and dirt that may cause infections. Use a large amount of tap water to clean the skin around the wound. As an alternative, use sterile saline solution or a mixture of equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide. Rinse the skin until it's clear. Avoid rubbing the area around the wound, because this can trigger bleeding. Lightly blot the area dry with a clean cloth or paper towels. If the wound doesn't stop bleeding within five minutes, apply pressure with a clean cloth and seek medical care.

    Bandaging the Paw

    • To properly wrap the injured paw, apply antibiotic ointment to a piece of sterile gauze. Place the gauze over the wound and secure it with tape. Next, unwind a roll of cotton gauze around the wounded paw, all the way over your puppy's wrist or ankle. Avoid wrapping the gauze too tight, because this will impair your dog companion's circulation -- keep it snug. Cover the gauze with a self-adhesive bandage to hold it in place.

    Care After Bandaging Your Puppy's Paw

    • Closely observe your puppy after wrapping his paw. If possible, keep your pet companion indoors. If you do allow him to go outside, place a plastic bag around the bandage to keep it clean and dry. Tighten the bandage if it moves from its original position. If your puppy's toes swell or feel cool to the touch, loosen the bandage -- it may be too tight. Change your puppy's bandage every other day to promote healing.