GotoAID Dogs - Heat Burn

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Heat Burn

Because of the fur on your pet it is hard to see the burn. First degree burns affect the top layer of skin and appear as red marks. Second degree burns are deeper and will cause blisters. Third degree burns go through all the layers of the skin. The skin will turn brown and leathery. It is essential to seek emergency vet care especially for a serious second degree and definitely for a third degree burn.

Symptoms

Redness	Pain
Heat	Itching
Swelling	Blisters
Burning

Steps

If you suspect shock DO NOT wash the burn and instead put an icepack against the burn and cover him with a blanket to keep him warm and provide 1 or 2 drops of Karo or Honey on your pet’s gums and take him to the vet

If your dog has only a small, mild burn then you can flush with cool water for 5 - 10 minutes

With blunt scissors trim any fur surrounding the burn enough to see the burn but not so short where’s it’s close to the skin

Wash the area with mild soap and cool water

For a First Degree Burn dry the area several times a day with a clean soft cloth and apply aloe vera ointment 3 – 5 times a day

For a Second Degree Burn cover the burn with a non-stick bandage like a Telfa pad or even simple gauze with a spread of Neosporin on the pad

Hold the pad in place with an elastic bandage like an ace bandage

Make sure to take your dog to the vet if the wound is serious or covers more than 3% of the body

Warnings

DO NOT wash the burn if you suspect shock

If your dog has been burned on the neck or head remove the collar immediately

DO NOT use cold water if the burn is in a large area as that can cause your dog to go into shock

DO NOT use ointments containing hydrocortisone

DO NOT ever place ice on a burn. (This will cause further damage to skin).

Tips

If you have Betadine Aniseptic uset it with a few cups of distilled water and flush the burn with it

You can also use Neosporin instead of aloe vera ointment

Take him to the vet especially if the wound is oozing or really blistered

Keep bandages dry when your dog goes outside by wrapping it with saran wrap

Signs of shock may include weakness, collapse, pale or grey colored gums, irregular breathing, high heart rate, weak pulse and body temperature changes (e.g. very cold or very hot)

If your pet has light fur or pink areas on their noses, ears, and belly, use a pet formulated sunblock when going outdoors

There are also special sun suits that light skinned dogs can wear that protect them from the sun.

Keep your pet indoors during peek sun hours or provide ample shade outside for your pet to avoid potential sunburns

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