Burns

 

Animals are afraid of fire so burns from a naked flame are not too common, although a dog dozing by the fire can get singed or burnt. The dog can burn its feet though, by walking on a hot surface, and scalds are also quite common. Puppies, especially, might chew on an electric lead which will cause a special type of burn and this will often be accompanied by electric shock.

Before commencing any of the following treatment, you should muzzle and restrain the dog.  A dog in pain is likely to try and bite.

 

Heat burns

Do not apply butter, grease or any ointment.

Where possible, flush the area with cold water for 30 minutes.

Soak a cloth in cold water and hold to burned place.

Send for the vet if the burn seems serious. A superficial burn is painful, reddens the skin and singes the hair, but the latter will not pull out easily.

A serious burn is actually less painful because the nerves have been destroyed. The skin may be white, black or brown, and the hair will either be gone completely or will pull out easily.

Keep the burn covered with a wet dressing covered with thick dry towels.

Make the dog stay lying down, restrained in warm blankets.

Give fluid as for dehydration, unless the dog is vomiting.

Treat for shock.

 

Chemical burns

Flush the burned area with lots of plain water for 30 minutes.

If acid, rinse with solution of 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda to 1 litre of water.

If alkali, use plain water only.

Seek the advice of your vet as soon as possible.

 

 

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Updated July 2009