Veterinarians suggest that the only guaranteed way to protect a wound from licking, especially at night or when you're not watching the dog, is to use a properly fitted Elizabethan collar.
Helpful hint - Four ways you can stop your dog licking their wounds
Bandages Bandaging a wound on your dog can be enough to stop your dog wanting to lick the wound, as it's often a case of out of sight out of mind. Tip - You want to ensure that the bandage is on firmly but not too tight, that it is comfortable for your dog and they are able to move around easily.
For dogs licking paws, try placing a specially designed paw bandage, or even one of your socks wrapped with adhesive surgical tape, over the irritated paw. Putting a T-shirt on your dog to cover a wound provides loose protection that also lets air reach the spot. You can purchase a recovery suit to protect your dog.
When Dogs Won't Stop Licking
Vets often put pets in plastic cone collars after surgery. Alternatives to the “cone of shamecone of shameAn Elizabethan collar, E collar or pet cone (sometimes humorously called a pet lamp-shade, pet radar dish, dog-saver, or cone of shame) is a protective medical device worn by an animal, usually a cat or dog.” are inflatable collars, soft E-collars and neck brace collars. Try covering the wound with soft fabric secured by medical tape to prevent licking. Keep pets busy with other fun things to distract them from licking wounds.
Veterinarians often recommend e-collarse-collarsAn Elizabethan collar, E collar or pet cone (sometimes humorously called a pet lamp-shade, pet radar dish, dog-saver, or cone of shame) is a protective medical device worn by an animal, usually a cat or dog. to prevent dog wound licking after surgeries such as spaying and neutering, as well as following any procedure that may require stitches. Similarly, groomers and veterinarians will also recommend an e-collar during treatment of hot spots.
Evidence Against the Health Claim Despite the antibacterial agents found in saliva, many scientists caution against wound licking, arguing that such practice is neither safe nor health-promoting.
There is nothing in a dog's saliva that can make wounds heal faster. They don't heal their wounds by licking; they simply keep them clean to prevent infection.
Many people perpetuate the rumor and myth that when a dog licks their wound it helps the wound to heal faster. Unfortunately, dogs have a lot of bacteria in their mouths. This can lead to infection and a longer healing time. Licking may also cause wounds to re-open, even when stitches are in place.
Why Do Dogs Lick Their Wounds? One of the primary reasons dogs lick their wounds is to help soothe the pain and discomfort. Licking the site of the wound overstimulates the brain, which in turn can help temporarily numb the pain. This is similar to humans rubbing or holding their wounds.
Licking might offer some protection against certain bacteria, but there are serious drawbacks to letting your dog lick wounds. Excessive licking can lead to irritation, paving the way for hot spots, infections, and potential self-mutilation. Licking and chewing can also slow healing by reopening wounds.
Licking might offer some protection against certain bacteria, but there are serious drawbacks to letting your dog lick wounds. Excessive licking can lead to irritation, paving the way for hot spots, infections, and potential self-mutilation. Licking and chewing can also slow healing by reopening wounds.
Simply speaking, no, you shouldn't allow your dog to lick your wound under any circumstances. Your dog's mouth is often a dirty place. Licking can introduce bacteria, which can lead to infections. Licking can also irritate your wound more since a dog's tongue isn't exactly the gentlest thing to rub on your wound.
How to Stop a Dog from Licking his Wound without using a Collar
Cleaning of the area with betadine lotion and any other suitable antiseptic medicine or ointment suggested by the veterinarian can further minimize the suffering. However, applying the right amount of turmeric can again help you control the maggot infestation in the wound present on your dog's body.