There is nothing a dog loves more than going outside and having some fun. But our furry-friends can often find themselves injured when play-time gets out of hand.
If your dog has a small enough wound or scratch then there are ways of treating it at home. However, make sure that your dog isn’t suffering from a larger injury. If the wound won’t stop bleeding or your dog is acting strange take them to your veterinarian first.
But scrapes and bruises can be managed with these six natural antiseptics:
- Silver Spray
- Turmeric
- Coconut Oil
- Aloe Vera
- Lavender Essential Oil
- Witch Hazel
Read on below for more information on antiseptics and how to apply them for your dog’s comfort.
What is an antiseptic and when to use it
It’s easy to get confused between an antiseptic and an antibacterial. They’re similar and often can serve the same purpose, but it’s important to understand the distinction between them for the safety of your dog.
An antiseptic is a substance that when applied to the skin or a wound prevents the growth of microorganisms like viruses, fungi, or bacteria that cause disease. An antibacterial is a substance that actively fights and destroys bacteria.
Antiseptics are used when working with a cut or wound that you don’t know everything about. So for minor scrapes and bruises, when you’re not sure what might have gotten into the skin, an antiseptic is perfect to cover all of your bases.
The most common antiseptic that people have in their home is hydrogen peroxide, often used to clean out ears, or clean-up scraped knees. But you might not want to use this or other artificial antiseptics for your dog especially if they have sensitive skin.
Silver spray
Probably the easier option to find and apply on this list, Fauna Care’s silver spray is a naturally based antiseptic that will work wonders on any cuts and scrapes your dog might have.
Silver spray is made up of microscopic pieces of silver that have been synthesized into liquid form. And because the silver particles are so small they have the ability to break apart viruses, bacteria, and any other nasty microorganism in your dog’s wound.
Typical silver sprays also have a deodorizing function in them, and so this is one of the few options on the list that will immediately get rid of any bad smells coming from the area of infection.
The best part about silver spray is that it’s touch-free. As the name implies all you have to do is spray the mixture on, which allows for a painless experience for you and your dog.
Turmeric
Few would think that such a distinct and strong spice could serve in healing a dog wound. But turmeric, which is often found in Indian dishes, has served as a natural antiseptic for humans and dogs for thousands of years.
And not only does the spice serve as an antiseptic, but an antibacterial, and an anti-inflammatory agent as well! So if your dog finds itself with a nasty looking wound, a turmeric mix will do them good.
Take your turmeric and put it in a one to one mix with some natural aloe vera gel you can find in the store. Then apply it to the affected area.
Most dogs turn their nose up at the smell of turmeric, so this mixture will also discourage them from picking at the wound too.
Coconut oil
The mother of all oils, coconut oil has what seems to be a thousand different uses in everyday life. You can add dog wound care to the list.
Typically used in cooking and beauty products, coconut oil is a natural antiseptic that chances are you already have in your home. Consisting of 90 percent natural fats, including lauric acid which is the part that cleans the wound, coconut oil works fast and is very easy to apply.
Rub the coconut oil onto the cut, and allow it about four or five minutes to absorb into the skin. If your dog's fur is still looking greasy, grab a wet paper towel or washcloth and pat down until you see the oil abated.
But be careful, if your dog has a tendency to gain weight and absorbs fat easily consult with your veterinarian before you use coconut oil. And make sure that the wound you’re applying it to is out of reach of your dog’s tongue. Unlike turmeric, dogs will lick the oil right up.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera, the topical miracle plant, is a miracle for dog wounds as well.
This is the best antiseptic for any wounds you find on your dog’s paws. Though dogs have pretty hardy paws and can withstand more extreme terrain without injuries, they are prone to the occasional cracked or bleeding wound.
If you want to help your pet out with an actual aloe vera plant you have at home, make sure to only use the middle part of the inner leaf juice. It should be clear-colored, if it’s yellow throw it away.
You can also buy natural aloe vera packaged in stores. If you want to go with this option, only use food-grade aloe vera. Any others you might find are often filled with artificial colorings and scents that could be harmful should your dog lick it off.
Lavender essential oil
The lovely lavender, known for its purple sheen and relaxing scent, can double for dog wound treatment as well. Particularly the extracted oil from the flower.
Lavender essential oil, which has a variety of uses in people from abating nausea to even curing insomnia, has natural antiseptic properties that can be used in creating a wound wash.
First, make sure to dilute your lavender oil with a base oil or some water, then apply liberally to the area. For dogs with sensitive skin sometimes lavender oil can sting, but for hardier dogs, lavender oil can even prove to be therapeutic. By calming your dog down with its soothing scent.
Witch hazel
A common component of first aid kits, witch hazel is a regular denizen of household medicine cabinets. Lucky for you, this antiseptic works on dogs as well.
Witch hazel is an astringent liquid derived from a flowering tree, which means that it reduces inflammation in the skin by sucking up the surrounding moisture. So if an insect bite is what’s caused the dog discomfort, this is the perfect option, as it wards away the itchiness as well.
You don’t have to water-down your witch hazel but make sure to use it in small doses, a few drops on a paper towel will do fine.
Also, if your dog has naturally dry and flaky skin this option may not be the best. The wound can become dry after application.
It’s always hard to see your dog in pain, and you don’t want to cause them any more discomfort. Naturally based options in terms of wound care can be the best bet for them and sometimes come with fewer health risks.
When in doubt contact your veterinarian, but turning to these nature-based solutions can provide some much-needed reprieve. Before you know it your dog will be out and about again, happy as can be.
