Wound and incision care

Check without interfering

Inspect visually as the vet directs; note changes or take a photo for the practice if requested. Do not probe, remove sutures or apply disinfectant, cream or dressings unless instructed. Keep the area dry and follow procedure-specific cleaning advice.

Prevent access

Keep the prescribed protection fitted and prevent other pets licking the wound. Ask for a fit check if your dog can reach it or cannot eat/drink safely. A garment can hide a wound, so inspect as instructed without leaving it unprotected.

Report changes

New or increasing redness, swelling, discharge, odour, bleeding, missing stitches or persistent attention to the site warrants advice. Wound opening, severe swelling or uncontrolled bleeding needs urgent contact. Do not assume a small opening can be treated at home.

Next steps

Recovery After Veterinary Treatment or Surgery

Evidence and review

• Blue Cross: preventing wound licking and bandage problems
• Veterinary discharge guidance: activity and incision protection

General guidance, not an individual medical, behavioural or legal assessment. The treating veterinary team’s instructions take priority. Search outcomes, recovery and dog relationships vary. Local services and legal arrangements must be confirmed for the location; procedures here are verified for the labelled UK nations and Republic of Ireland, not assumed to apply elsewhere.

Behaviour support should use humane, reward-based methods. Ask your vet about pain or illness and referral to an appropriately qualified clinical behaviour professional for safety concerns. In the UK, the ABTC register identifies assessed roles; check relevant species, role and referral requirements.

Evidence standards · Report a correction