wound

Question
I have a two year old rat terrier mix. This morning she was whining and staying abnormally close to people and when we checked her over we saw a shallow but fairly rough and open looking wound on her side with a long cut hooking down from it. We know it wasn't from another animal since it happened overnight and she's seperated from our other pets. Is there any way to clean and dress it at home? She's medium haired so I think I'd have to shave her.

Answer
Jessi,

I highly recommend you take her to the vet, she should be on antibiotics and may need a tetanus injection.

Because you're not sure what caused it, the tetanus is just a precaution.

The hair should be shaved 3 inches around the wound and sutures may be necessary to close it properly so it heals and does not become infected.

I recommend you see your vet as soon as possible.

Good Luck,

Laura