Pressure sores – Pressure sores refer to chronic injuries to the skin. In dogs, it takes place when they sit on a hard surface for extended hours. Sitting there for a long period of time reduces the blood flow, thereby damaging the skin tissues. Furthermore, it might develop into an open wound too. Pressure sores usually develop on the bony areas of the dog, like hips and elbows.
Causes of pressure sores in dogs – If the dog or, for that matter, any pet is immobilized for a long period, ulcers are likely to develop. Disabled pets and older dogs find it difficult to move as there is no muscle mass for protection. Consequently, dog pressure sores can develop.
Loss of sensations in the limbs of the dogs is also risky as far as sores are concerned. Pressure sores mostly affect the upper layers of the wound. Dogs of any breed can develop pressure wounds and ulcers. But these are most common in the larger breed dogs.
Symptoms – Early symptoms of dog pressure sores are –
Skin discoloration
Puffy or swollen skin
Open wound
The color of the skin becomes red or purple
A foul smell coming from the wound
Patchy hair loss
The wound is oozing out pus or green or yellow fluid.
The above-mentioned symptoms mean that your dog highly needs veterinary care.
Treatment
If you don’t treat the bedsores on dogs timely, the condition of your pet might become severe and difficult to treat. You don’t want these sores to be life-threatening on your dog, right? So, here are some possible treatment options for bedsores –
Dog wheelchair – A dog wheelchair is a great option that supports your pet from underneath. It helps keep the posture of your dog upright and take the pressure off the hindquarters. Moreover, it improves the respiratory health, muscle tone, and circulation of the dog. All in all, a dog wheelchair is a boon to your dog.
Lifting harness – You can support your dog using a lifting harness to help them stand or gently lower themselves to the ground. Lifting harnesses and slings are worthy options to lift the full body of your furbaby. It is one of the easiest ways to get your furry pal back on their feet and moving again.
Skincare – Regular care of the skin helps a lot when it comes to steering clear of ulcers. Keep the affected areas clean and dry. The areas should be free of feces or urine. You can use zinc oxide on the risk areas of your pooch to protect them from urine and keep its skin soft. You can also help your dog have frequent sponge baths or warm whirlpool baths. The three important aspects of skincare to keep the pressure sores at bay are – good hygiene, skin inspection, and good nutrition.
Cushioning – If your pet lies directly on the floor when suffering from sores, don’t allow him to do that. Pamper your dog with orthopedic cushioning that will aid the existing sores to heal. An orthopedic bed is also an amazing option, especially for senior dogs or dogs having problems with their hips or joints. It is topped with soft fleece fabric to not let your dog slip if it tries to climb on it.
Defining Hygroma – Hygroma is the exact opposite of pressure sores. In this condition, the bony areas of the dogs fill with fluid and consequently swell. However, the swelling isn’t that painful. And if you take your pet to the vet at the earliest, the vet can aspirate the affected area with a needle and release the fluid.
Some hygromas can become severe for which surgery is needed. When the hygroma of a dog becomes very large, the vet inserts the drainage tubes into the affected area and hence reduces the fluid buildup.
Prevention of Hygroma – Prevention techniques for hygroma is quite similar to that of sores. Some of them are –
Motion exercises – Basic physical exercises can make the joints and muscles of your pet strong. Get in touch with your pet’s vet to know the right techniques for performing regular motion exercises.
Massage – It is advisable for dog owners to learn basic massage techniques. Massage helps keep the blood flowing to the muscles of your pet.
To make a long story short
Keep the above-mentioned tips in mind if you want to keep your pet moving. And enjoy the time with your dog.
