Infected? Stiches from Spay

Question
We adopted a 9 month old lab/border collie who recently got spayed 5 days ago.  The stiches looked great and she wasn't licking them until last night, after she jumped into the bay and got them wet.  We pulled her out immediately and dried them off.  In the middle of the night she whined and seemed to be uncomfortable.  Her stiches and the cut is now red and she is licking them often.  Should we use alcohol to clean it up or put any cream on it?  We were told by the shelter to have her stiches removed a week and a half after the surgery, so now in five days.  What should we do?  Is there an easy solution without having to see a vet?  Thank you for your time.

Answer
OK, she is going to have to see a vet anyway to have the incision site checked.  BUT here is the kicker- she may have an infection now because of her licking it. That may warrent antibiotics.

If you are inclined not to see a vet, clean the area with diluted peroxide (alcohol burns!) and do warm compresses to the area.

Sutures in a dog in my opinion of that size need to stay in for at least 7-10 days. No earlier.

Good Luck