You can use any shirt that will cover the wound and prevent your dog from licking at it. You can make your own dog cone, too.
To restrict movement, licking or chewing choose a pool noodle that is thick enough around in circumference to prevent your dog from reaching the area you're trying to protect. This thinner noodle was more than enough to remind Luna not to lick or chew her stitches, allowing the area to heal.
Bandaging a wound on your dog can be enough to stop your dog wanting to lick the wound, as it's often a case of out of sight out of mind. Tip - You want to ensure that the bandage is on firmly but not too tight, that it is comfortable for your dog and they are able to move around easily.
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.
Use wet, cool towels
This is especially useful for dogs suffering from heatstroke. To keep them cool, drench a towel in tepid water and drape it over your dog. Leave it on for short periods of time and make sure to remove it once the towel has dried as it may make your dog feel warmer.
One of the biggest difficulties dogs and their owners face in getting a dog used to a cone is making eating, drinking, and sleeping as easy as possible. The cone can certainly make these tasks more difficult, but it is entirely possible for dogs to sleep and eat with a cone on.
These can include e-collars, bandages, and boots
Elizabeth collars, or e-collars, can be a handy tool for your dog. It will completely prevent them from licking their wound, as their head is separated from the rest of their body.
Combining sturdy bandages with boxer shorts, sweaters, onesies and even booties can be extremely effective in deterring your pet from licking or scratching.
Like dog shoes, not every dog will tolerate wearing socks. You can just take a pair of your old socks or little baby socks and see if they will work. You should be watchful when putting socks on your dog's feet, as some dogs will be tempted to chew them.
If you are applying a bandage at home, it should be checked by a Vet as soon as possible. Never leave a bandage on for longer than 24 hours unless applied by a Vet. Avoid the bandage getting wet as this will make it tighter and can lead to the wound becoming infected. Avoid taking your dog out in wet conditions.
Prevent Licking
Many clients ask us if they should let their dog lick their cut paw. While some licking can help kill bacteria on the wound, excessive licking may reopen the wound and cause infection. You should not let your dog lick their cut paw.
Despite the benefits of licking their wounds, it's not nearly as effective as current methods for treating injuries. If dogs are left to clean wounds themselves, they could irritate their injuries, slow down the healing process and introduce harmful bacteria.
Reduce inflammation and licking with this home remedy.
A natural anti-inflammatory and acidic neutralizer, baking soda can help ease your dog's irritated skin. Put 1⁄2 cup (120 mL) of baking soda in a bucket of warm water and soak your dog's paws for 10 minutes. Repeat this 2 to 3 times a day for the best results.
Yes – dogs can sleep, eat, drink, pee, and poop with a cone on.
Any dog cone alternative including inflatable collars, flexible and soft fabric e-collars, and clothing like onesies and bodysuits can be used instead of a traditional e-collar. Make sure whatever you decide to use protects the affected area from your dog's biting or licking.
If your pet has a short face or doesn't tolerate cones, an inflatable collar may be a better option. The donut-shaped Kong Cloud Collar is ideal for short-nosed dogs because it still prevents them from licking most surgical sites but lets them eat more easily than a traditional cone.