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DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I took my Springer Spaniel, Rog, for a walk in the woods this morning. When we got back, I noticed he was trying to lick a spot behind his shoulder. I found a thin scratch on his skin. I dabbed it with some antibacterial ointment, but that’s about it. Will he be OK? – Jessica in Jaffrey, New Hampshire
DEAR JESSICA: As long as the wound seems to be healing, Rog should be fine. Check the area once a day and reapply antibacterial ointment. If it begins to appear puffy and red, or Rog seems very distressed by it, take him to the vet for further evaluation.
Most minor scratches on a dog’s skin and paws can be treated at home using the household first-aid kit. You also can build a pet first-aid kit that is easy to access when you walk into the house. In addition to antibacterial ointment (avoid products with hydrocortisone), it should have antiseptic solution, water-based lubricant like KY (not Vaseline), clean towels, an empty squeeze bottle (like a ketchup bottle), tick-removal tweezers, a muzzle, small scissors and a disposable razor to gently remove fur. (Electric clippers are an even safer option.)
To treat a small scratch or cut, fill the squeeze bottle with lukewarm water. Hold your dog securely, placing a muzzle on him to prevent bites if he gets agitated. Trim or shave away hair from the area. Gently clean the wound using the squeeze bottle of water. Pat dry. Dab the antiseptic onto the wound, then apply antibiotic ointment. Cover lightly with a bandage if possible; otherwise, prevent your dog from licking away the ointment for at least 10 minutes. Check and reapply ointment daily as the wound heals.
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