Should I let my dog lick his paw wound?
Yoshiko Ruecker
2025-10-09 15:15:45
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Do not allow your dog to lick or chew the open wound. Many dogs will require a protective collar to prevent them from injuring the site. Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics or antibiotic cream to apply to the wound. Gently clean the wound and surrounding area to remove any debris. Your veterinarian will provide you with specific instructions. Do not discontinue antibiotics for any reason, unless you have been instructed to do so by your veterinarian.
Mikayla Streich
2025-09-30 07:20:16
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: 29
If your dog has a wound, they may try to lick it, making it worse. It's a common myth that your dog's saliva has highly antibacterial properties so their licking can be good for their wounds. Actually, saliva is only mildly bacterial, and can also be a source of disease-producing bugs. The trauma caused by licking is also likely to make wounds worse. If your dog is trying to lick their wounds, it's important to prevent them from doing this as much as you can. For wild or feral dogs, licking may be beneficial in cleaning a wound. But wild animals are busy staying safe and finding food, whereas a well-fed, pampered pet can devote a lot of time to licking a wound, making it more extensive and sore in the process. So limiting access to wounds, particularly surgical ones, is important.
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