04
Apr
Can Dogs Lick Open Wounds. Dog saliva unfortunately has been shown to carry dangerous bacteria like Pasteurella which can cause infections when introduced to open wounds. This is particularly important with abscesses that have been lanced and drained surgically. Your best bet on a wound is to consult a veterinarian for your dog or physician for you. This instinct reduces the risk of infection as it helps mammals keep their open wounds clean.
Get a protective collar to prevent further injury. It is not only do dogs have a natural instinct to immediately lick any wound inflicted on them. Many dogs will require a protective collar see handout Elizabethan Collars in Dogs for more information to prevent them from injuring the site. It isnt a good idea to let your dog lick your wounds and it really isnt a good idea to let him lick his own. This is particularly important with abscesses that have been lanced and drained surgically. You can also try covering the wound.
If your dog has an open wound whether from surgery or a recent accident it will want to lick the wound by instinct.
If that is the case it is suggested that you allow your dog to lick your wound. Your best bet on a wound is to consult a veterinarian for your dog or physician for you. For wild or feral dogs licking is probably beneficial in cleaning a wound. Dogs cats rodents and primates all lick wounds. Get a protective collar to prevent further injury. Medical assessment can tell you if the best bactericidal action will come from.