GotoAID Dogs - Bleeding

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Bleeding

A small amount of bleeding is nothing to be alarmed about. The blood can flush bacteria and debris out of the wound before a clot forms. You will know that a clot has formed once the wound has stopped bleeding. It is essential to remember that to your body the initial clot is temporary and very fragile as your body is working behind it to fix the wound. It is crucial not to disturb the clot by wiping it or unnecessarily rubbing it. If it is a deep wound make sure to seek emergency medical help as soon as possible as your pet can quickly lose a potentially life-threatening amount of blood.

Symptoms

Bleeding	Cut
Pain	Puncture
Laceration

Steps

Apply a clean cloth or gauze pad to the wound and apply pressure

If blood soaks through the pad apply another pad over it and apply pressure

The bleeding should stop within 5 minutes

Treat wound once bleeding is under control by gently cleaning the wound with 1 part iodine and 3 parts saline or warm water

If bleeding is not well controlled, one can apply a pressure bandage by wrapping the wound with several layers of gauze and then using an elastic bandage, duct tape, or masking tape over it to maintain pressure.

Treat and check for signs of shock. (Signs of shock include weakness, pale or grey gums, body temperature changes, and rapid breathing.) Slightly rise your pet’s back end to increase blood flow to the heart. Keep your pet warm with a blanket if cold. If your pet is hot, cool down with cold compresses to the chest and abdomen.

Warnings

DO NOT wash wounds that are bleeding heavily

DO NOT remove initial cloth as it will remove the clot trying to form

Pets can die from shock in 10 – 20 minutes unless they get veterinarian help

DO NOT wrap the bandage too tightly as this will cut off circulation. A good rule of thumb is to make sure you can slide 1-2 fingers underneath the bandage.

Tips

Elevating the injured part may help to slow down bleeding

A good alternative to gauze pads or cloth are sanitary napkins as they are super absorbent

If he is in shock you may notice him act woozy, weak, eyelids droop, pale tongue or gums , rapid breathing, collapse

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