One unique and instinctive thing for dogs is to lick their wounds. The first thing we have to keep in mind is why they’re doing this. We have animals that do it because of physiological problems such as dermatitis, allergies or skin irritations by external agents, we also have those who do it out of boredom or stress. Finally, and as the title suggests, by the presence of a wound, accidental or surgical.
Physiologically, we must say that there is a reason why wounds are licked, regardless of their origin. It is the ascorbic acid in saliva that reacts with the skin nitrates, which gives it hydrogen monoxide, is called sialotherapy, because it promotes healing. Unfortunately, it also promotes germ proliferation and increased injuries. But we must not forget that saliva contains a certain amount of microbes that live and proliferate, peacefully, in the mouth of our dog, when they are in a new and labile ground, begin with colonization.
- Let’s look at the Animal Expert article how to prevent our dog from ingesting a wound.
- What consequences this can have and how we can help you.
To understand a little more our four-legged companions, it must be said that dogs that live in the wild, when they have a wound, the only way to clean themselves is by licking. There is no disinfectant or healing ointment to help them. Therefore, we have to say that the greatest pollutants are normally eliminated. But this should only be allowed in cases where they live in their natural habitat and without being able to disinfect with soap and water.
As we progress through the introduction, dogs can lick wounds for different reasons. It’s often their way of communicating with others, ordering food, and interacting with the world around them. But we often notice that our dog caused an injury in itself. After excessive licking, mainly on the front legs and occasionally between the toes, we observe the lack of skin in the area, redness and often even bleeds. When we found out, we ran to the vet, where we were told that, in most cases, these injuries are caused by stress or boredom, that is, we go home more disappointed than at first because they tell us that our dog is suffering. Our four-legged friend gives us signs that we don’t even notice them and that we end these marks on his skin.
For these cases, we can resort to homeopathy, looking for a drug that will help you cope with these changes in your life with more peace of mind and without too much stress. You can also use other natural therapies like The Reiki and Bach Flowers, but we should not forget to combine them with longer walks, intense games and many care, which they usually ask for.
Basically, it should be noted that a licking animal also generates endorphins that soothe the burning or itching of the wound, thus generating some relief. The best thing we can do is listen to our boyfriend so we can help him if necessary.
Ideally, try to properly understand what is causing frequent licking. If it was an injury due to surgery. But if you don’t know why this happens and every family member has a different opinion, go to the vet to hear an expert voice.
In parallel to the diagnosis, a treatment will be applied according to the assessment carried out by the veterinarian and certainly the cream to be applied every 12 or 24 hours according to the recommendations of the professional.
There are several aids to prevent the wounds from licking. Some may be:
If you would like to read articles similar to, we recommend that you visit our Skin Care section.