Canine First Aid | Burn Wounds

Introduction

This lesson about burns is HOT!

Although burning wounds are not very common, you should still know what to do and how to react. What’s important is that you recognize the type of burn your dog has.

First degree and Second degree burns in dogs

The first aid procedure for first and second degree burns are the same. However, in order to identify the severeness of the burn, you should look out for the following clinical signs:

First degree burn

The skin is red and has small blisters

It can be painful

The fur is charred but intact

Second degree burn

The skin gets swollen and there are blisters

The dog is in obvious pain

The fur is charred

It’s fairly easy to distinguish these two types of burns, and if your dog has any of the above signs, you should take following steps:

Step 1: If you’re afraid that your dog will bite, restrain him with a muzzle.

Step 2: Fetch ice or cold water and apply it to the wound for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 3: Take a sterile compress and tie it up so it stays in place. Make sure your dog doesn’t lick the wound.

Step 4: Go to the vet immediately

Third degree burns in dogs

Third degree burns are characterized by:

The dog is in extreme pain

Big blisters appear

Charred skin

Fur falling out

When this is the case, follow the next steps:

Step 1: If you dog is in panic, approach him carefully and calm him down with your voice. If necessary, restrain him and put on a muzzle (recommended)

Step 2: Look out for sign of shock (fast heartbeat, fast breathing, pale gums) If your dog is in shock, follow the shock procedure.

Step 3: Apply cold compresses or an ice pack (wrapped in a sterile compress) on the wound.

Step 4: Take a sterile compress and tie it up so it stays in place. Make sure your dog doesn’t lick the wound!

Step 5: Go to the vet immediately, keep an eye on the dog’s vital signs.

Call to the vet and notify that you are on the way so they can prepare

IMPORTANT:

Don’t attempt to remove burned hair or skin and don’t apply any ointments. Call to your vet and follow his/her instructions

That was it for today!

Thank you for staying with me, I hope you've learned some useful information.

Dog burn injuries

Introduction

First degree and Second degree burns in dogs

Third degree burns in dogs

That was it for today!