Pet CPR + First Aid Certification Manual: Wounds

Pet Wounds

Wounds are common injuries in dogs and cats and may result from bites, cuts, scratches, falls, accidents, or other trauma. Some wounds may appear minor while deeper tissue damage or infection is still possible. The type, location, depth, and amount of bleeding can help determine how urgently veterinary care is needed.

Cleaning Pet Wounds

If fur prevents you from seeing a minor wound clearly, carefully separate or trim the fur only if it can be done safely without causing additional injury.

For a minor wound:

1. Ensure scene safety
2. Use gloves or other PPE if available
3. Control any bleeding with gentle direct pressure
4. Rinse the wound with clean water or saline
5. Remove only loose surface debris that can be easily cleared
6. Protect the wound with a clean dressing if appropriate
7. Prevent the pet from licking, chewing, or scratching the area
8. Monitor for swelling, redness, drainage, worsening pain, or other signs of infection

Do not use hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals unless directed by a veterinarian.

Bite Wounds and Punctures

Bite wounds and punctures can cause deeper tissue damage than may be visible from the surface and have an increased risk of infection. If bleeding is present, apply direct pressure with clean gauze or cloth. Arrange veterinary evaluation for bite wounds, punctures, deep wounds, or wounds caused by another animal.

Cuts and Lacerations

For a cut or laceration, control bleeding with direct pressure and gently rinse the wound with clean water or saline once significant bleeding is controlled. Seek veterinary care for deep or gaping wounds, persistent bleeding, exposed tissue, significant contamination, or wounds involving sensitive areas such as the eyes, face, chest, abdomen, or joints.

Scratches and Abrasions

Minor scratches and abrasions can usually be gently rinsed with clean water or saline. Apply direct pressure if bleeding continues. Monitor the area for increasing redness, swelling, drainage, pain, or other signs that the wound may be worsening.

Skin Tears and Avulsions

A skin tear or avulsion occurs when skin or tissue is partially or completely torn away. These injuries may involve significant tissue damage and should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Control bleeding with gentle direct pressure, cover the area with a clean dressing when practical, and avoid pulling, cutting, or attempting to reposition damaged tissue.

When Veterinary Care Is Needed

Seek prompt veterinary care for:

• Bite wounds or punctures
• Deep or gaping wounds
• Uncontrolled or significant bleeding
• Exposed muscle, bone, or other tissue
• Wounds involving the eyes, chest, abdomen, joints, or other sensitive areas
• Embedded objects
• Significant contamination
• Increasing swelling, redness, drainage, pain, or other signs of infection
• Any wound that is serious, worsening, or beyond your ability to safely manage

Pet first aid is intended to provide immediate basic care while veterinary assistance is being arranged. It does not replace professional veterinary examination or treatment.