How to Prevent a Dog From Excessively Licking Sores

How to Prevent a Dog From Excessively Licking Sores. When a dog licks its sores the animal might be trying to remove debris or provide relief. The result of excessive licking can lead to serious complications, and the sore might expand or ooze. A dog's saliva contains bacteria that can lead to an infection, It is important to develop a solution that will stop excessive licking while the sore heals.

Things Needed

• Neck collar
• Scissors
• Mild soap
• Water
• Hand cloth
• Antiseptic
• Lemon juice
• Spray bottle
• Medical bandages
• Medical tape
• Elastic bandage

Neck Collar

Step 1

Ask your veterinarian to fit your dog with a neck collar, or an Elizabethan collar. Place the collar directly around its neck, which will prevent the dog from licking its sores.

Step 2

Ensure that your dog's neck collar is large enough. Collars that aren't large enough can allow your dog to lick sores on the front of its legs.

Step 3

Take the collar off while your dog eats. According to Vet Info, a neck collar can prevent your dog from eating. Observe your dog while it eats; make certain it doesn't resume licking its sores.

Topical Treatment

Step 1

Remove excess hair from around your dog's sore. Gently cleanse the affected area with a mild soap and water. Apply an antiseptic to the sore.

Step 2

Put some lemon juice in a spray bottle, and spray it on your dog's medical bandages. According to Pet Health Care, dogs dislike the taste of bitter objects, and will avoid licking the bandages.

Step 3

Apply the medical bandages to your dog's sores; secure them in place with medical tape. Wrap an elastic bandage over the sores to add additional support.

Warnings

• Always wash your hands before and after handling your pet's sores.
• Bitter apple sprays can also be applied to bandages.
• You can use a T-shirt to cover sores located on your dog's body. Taping the shirt in place will prevent the shirt from rolling up.
• If sores become infected, ask your physician about antibiotic treatments for your dog.

Warnings

• Alert your physician if your dog's sores begin to ooze a foul-smelling discharge, if your dog becomes lethargic or if the sores on your dog begin to develop into ulcers.

References

• Vet Info: How to Stop Dog Wound Licking
• Pet Health Care: How to Prevent Dog From Licking Wound