Topical Remedies to Promote Dog Healing

Many times when dogs have open wounds, or become ill with external infections, topical remedies are the treatment of choice. Topical remedies to promote dog healing can be quite effective. There are prescription, over-the-counter, and natural healing remedies that come in the form of creams, gels, liquids and sprays to be applied externally to the skin, ears or eyes. When applying topical remedies, there are some recommendations to follow to ensure the best and most successful outcome for dog healing.

Applying Topical Remedies

If your dog is difficult to handle, or the issue requiring remedy is painful, inflamed, itchy or otherwise irritating, you may be facing a challenge when applying topical remedies. It may be best to invite another person to hold the dog while you apply the remedy. For skin conditions, always attempt to part the hair and point the applicator as close to the affected area of the skin as possible. Since cream and ointments have a better effect when massaged in, it's recommended to wear rubber gloves and gently rub the remedy into the skin, being careful not to further irritate any open wounds or spots that may be abscessed.

Applying Topical Ear Ointments

Applying topical remedies to the ears can also be challenging. Entry of liquid into the ear canal may be startling or uncomfortable for your dog, especially if the remedy has been refrigerated per instructions. The best way to effectively apply topical remedies for the ear is to flap the ear over the head, if possible, and hold it with your hand. Slowly administer a small amount of liquid into the lower part of the ear canal. Softly massage the base of the ear to work the medication into the ear canal. You will hear a squeaky sound indicating that the application was successful. Your dog will want to vigorously shake his head once you are finished. This is fine, however debris from the ears can cause a mess, so performing this treatment in a smaller room, like the bathroom, may be beneficial.

Applying Topical Eye Ointments

If you can keep your pet's head still, applying topical ointments to the eyes should be a breeze. As with any application of medicinal or herbal remedies, a second person may be of benefit. Clean the eye with warm water to remove any discharge. Gently hold the dog's eye open with one hand, and apply the remedy with the other. Drops or liquid should be dropped either directly on the eye, or on the surrounding pink area. Be careful not to touch the applicator to the eye. Your dog will begin to blink and the medication will distribute over the eyeball. Don't forget to offer a treat to encourage such good behavior for next time.   

Getting the Most out of Treatment

Dogs have a tendency to lick at wounds and open spots, especially in the case of newly applied liquid or ointment. To avoid this, administer the treatment just before mealtime, or distract the dog with a walk, or his favorite toy right after the application. If licking becomes a major obstacle, it may be necessary for the dog to wear an Elizabethan collar.

 

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