Dog attack.

Question
One of my rabbits was attacked by a large dog, and has a few punctures on his head, one of which is on his eye. Is there anything I give him or put on the eye without a vet? I lost my job and don't have the money to take him. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you for your time.

Answer
Dear Kelly,

Any wounds must be quickly and thoroughly disinfected with a dilute solution of povidone iodine (Betadine, or generic).  Use about one part povidone iodine to four parts lukewarm, very clean water.

VERY CAREFULLY clip the fur away from the wounds with a pair of small scissors, so no hair gets into the wounds.  Scrub the area gently with a clean gauze soaked with the betadine, being sure to get the entire wound very clean.  Pat dry, and keep a very close eye on the wounds for any sign of swelling or infection.  (Don't put anything else on the wound without consulting a vet; ointments can impede healing in some circumstances).

Dog saliva is actually less dangerous than cat saliva, which would *really* have meant a trip to the vet if you want to save your rabbit's life.  But even a dog injury should be checked by a good rabbit vet:

www.rabbit.org/vets

if the wounds are deep or extensive, as these can still become infected and potentially life-threatening. They also can be painful, and the vet can prescribe rabbit-safe analgesics to keep your bunny comfortable while he recovers.

I hope he will be well soon.

Dana