Topical antiseptic chlorhexidine is frequently used in minor wounds and cuts. Pets can use this popular disinfectant without any problems.
Using an antiseptic spray or ointment topically on the wound can help prevent infection. Triple antibiotic ointment is very safe and effective to help stop a bacterial infection. While it is not ideal if your dog licks it off (it won't have a chance to do its job), it isn't harmful if swallowed in small quantities.
Apply a non-stinging antiseptic solution to the area. Chlorhexidine is cheap, extremely effective, and readily available. A 2% solution limits tissue irritation, but 4% solutions are also commonly used. Povidone-iodine solution is another good option.
FAQ - Can antiseptic cream be used on dogs or other pets? Savlon Antiseptic Cream is not meant to be used on animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits etc. Sometimes vets will be able to supply a suitable antiseptic cream or ointment, however in many cases minor cuts will heal on their own.
Using a cleanser such as diluted betadine or chlorhexidine, which are often included in a packaged first aid kit, gently clean the injured area. Do not use rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide as these can damage the tissue and delay healing.
To apply betadine on your dog, gently wipe the wound with a washcloth saturated with the betadine solution. You can do this up to twice a day for minor sores or skin infections. One great thing about Betadine is that it is completely harmless if it's ingested.
Clean your dog's wound two to three times daily with salt water (see image above). Don't use anything else to clean the wound unless you have spoken to your vet - even veterinary antiseptics can slow down healing.
Alcohols are one of the most popular antiseptic and disinfecting products, used every day in veterinary clinics and laboratories. Although many alcohols are germicidal, the two most commonly used as disinfecting agents are ethyl and isopropyl alcohol.
What should I clean the wound with? Warm tap water is recommended for cleaning most wounds. Warm saline (salt solution) may also be used. This may be made by adding approximately one level teaspoonful (5 mL) of salt (or Epsom salts) to two cups (500 mL) of water.
Clean any minor wounds or cuts in clean warm water only (DO NOT USE DETTOL OR TCP) and apply a mild antiseptic cream or gel if available (eg. Germolene)
Elastoplast or plasters:
These can strip the skin from many reptiles, birds and small mammals. Primapore-style plasters may be suitable for dogs and cats, providing the hair has been removed so the plaster sticks to skin.
It is important to choose a cream that is specifically designed for use on dogs or animals, as some of the other creams may not be effective on them and could cause irritation or be dangerous if ingested.
Vaseline. Some recommend putting Vaseline on your dog's bum to relieve soreness and itching. The idea does seem to make some sense. After all, Vaseline would protect any cuts or abrasions from getting infected.
Use a mild soap and water solution and rinse the area well. Do not use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can actually delay healing. Once the wound is clean, you will want to apply an antibiotic ointment or cream. This will help to prevent infection and will also help the wound heal faster.
Vaseline does not have any antibacterial, soothing or healing properties. If you're in a pinch it won't hurt, but in the long term, there are more beneficial products formulated specifically for dogs that are safer to use.
Bacitracin is a safe and effective antibiotic for treating bacterial infections in dogs, particularly after surgery. Its use has been shown to reduce the risk of infections and positive bacteria cultures.
For Professional Veterinary Use Only
Uses: For preparation of the skin prior to surgery. Helps to reduce bacteria on the skin that potentially can cause infection.
Chlorhexidine. Chlorhexidine is a topical antiseptic medication often sold through brands like Biopatch, ChloraPrep, and Hibistat. This common disinfectant is indeed safe for pets. Though it is often sold in 2% and 4% solutions, Fauna Care recommends using a lower concentration on pets to be safe.
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.
Dilute betadine is an excellent disinfectant to keep in your first-aid kit. A good alternative to betadine is diluted chlorhexidine. Hydrogen peroxide should not be used to clean the wound because it is very damaging to skin cells, and can actually delay wound healing.
When used properly, it's generally considered safe to put Neosporin on dogs, and the same goes for generic triple antibiotic topicals. But there are a few caveats. Any topical applied to a dog will encourage that dog to lick the area.
Chamomile, calendula, and green tea have properties that soothe and cool irritated skin and reduce inflammation, making them great additions in a dog bath for itchy skin. These soaks are best for dogs who have hot, itchy patches of skin that are at risk of getting rubbed raw.
Do not use antiseptic cream designed for humans on pet's wounds (as they will often lick/ingest creams). Speak to your vet if a pet's wound needs treatment.
First Aid Spray
It can be used on your pets wounds to prevent or treat infection. Use first aid spray on your adventurous pet's minor skin infections caused by small cuts, scrapes, or burns.