Cleaning wounds in dogs Dubai – Professional and home care guide for pet owners

Why do we clean wounds in dogs?

• Removes contamination, including bacteria that thrive in Dubai’s warm, humid conditions
• Eliminates foreign material: sand, dust, glass or debris commonly found in urban environments
• Removes dead tissue that could interfere with healing and provide a breeding ground for infection
• Reduces the risk of complications such as abscesses or systemic infection
• Prepares wounds for the appropriate healing method: some require stitching, others heal better if left open
• Creates optimal conditions for faster, healthier tissue repair

How are wounds cleaned in dogs?

Wound cleaning in a veterinary clinic involves:

• Applying sterile lubricant and clipping fur around the wound
• Shaving and gently flushing the wound to remove surface debris
• Removing foreign material (sand, glass, plant matter) and dead tissue – a process called debridement
• Thorough flushing with sterile saline or antibacterial solutions that are safe for healthy tissue
• Closing the wound with stitches if possible, or using specialised bandages to protect against Dubai’s dusty environment

For abscesses:

• Lancing (cutting open) and draining pus
• Thorough cleaning and flushing of the cavity
• Placement of drains to allow continued fluid removal and prevent premature closure

Home wound care (minor wounds only):

• Gently clean your hands before handling the wound
• Carefully remove visible debris with clean tweezers if easily accessible
• Flush with clean water or sterile saline solution
• Pat dry with a clean cloth; never rub the wound
• Apply appropriate antiseptic, only if recommended by your vet

First aid and wound protection

Immediate at-home care before a vet visit:

• Keep the wound as clean and dry as possible
• Prevent your dog from licking the injured area
• Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth if bleeding persists
• Do not apply bandages at home unless specifically instructed
• Keep your dog calm and restrict movement to prevent further injury

Preparation for professional wound treatment:

• If sedation or general anaesthetic is required, your dog may need to fast for 12 hours beforehand
• Bring any medications your dog is currently taking
• Record how the injury occurred and when
• Arrange transportation that minimises stress and movement

Why your dog needs sedation/general anaesthetic for wound cleaning

Professional wound cleaning often requires sedation or general anaesthetic for:

• Dogs who are stressed or anxious in the clinic environment
• Allowing effective and thorough cleaning and surgical procedures
• Managing pain – wound cleaning and suturing are painful procedures requiring adequate pain relief
• Treating complex wounds that require extensive debridement or surgical repair
• Ensuring sterile conditions are maintained throughout the procedure

How much does it cost for wound cleaning?

Small, superficial wounds:

• Simple cleaning without anaesthetic: AED 150-600
• Basic wound care and bandaging included

Wounds requiring sedation/general anaesthetic and surgery:

• Sedation costs: AED 300-800, including monitoring, equipment and medication
• General anaesthesia: AED 500-1200, depending on procedure duration
• Simple suturing: AED 400-800 additional cost
• Complex procedures involving drains, skin grafts or reconstructive surgery: significantly higher costs

Additional costs to consider:

• Multiple bandage changes: AED 100-300 per visit
• Pain relief medications: AED 80-250
• Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, ultrasound): AED 300-800
• Wound culture and sensitivity testing: AED 200-500
• Antibiotic prescriptions: AED 120-400

Is wound cleaning safe for dogs?

Wound cleaning is generally very safe when performed correctly, whether at home for minor injuries or professionally for serious wounds.

Potential risks include:

• Bleeding during or after the procedure
• Wound breakdown if healing is disrupted
• Infection, despite proper cleaning protocols
• Anaesthetic risks, when sedation or general anaesthesia is required

Dubai-specific considerations:

• Increased infection risks due to heat, humidity and environmental bacteria
• Sand and dust contamination requires extra care
• Rapid wound deterioration is possible in challenging climate conditions

Risks are minimised by maintaining sterile techniques, assessing wounds appropriately and following your vet’s guidance.

How to help your dog after the procedure

Daily wound care:

• Keep the wound and any bandages completely clean and dry
• Use air conditioning and controlled indoor environments during healing
• Check wounds daily for discharge, swelling, increased redness or smell
• Watch for behavioural changes indicating pain or discomfort

Preventing interference:

• Prevent licking, biting and scratching using a cone collar, medical suit or protective boots
• Maintain constant supervision when protective equipment is removed
• Distract your dog with appropriate mental stimulation when activity is restricted

Exercise and activity:

• Reduce exercise significantly until wounds heal completely
• In Dubai’s heat, limit outdoor time to essential toilet breaks during cooler morning/evening hours
• Avoid swimming, exposure to sand or rough play until wounds are fully healed

Medication compliance:

• Give antibiotics and pain relief at correct doses and scheduled times
• Complete the course of medication, even if wounds appear healed
• Store medications properly in Dubai’s heat to maintain effectiveness

Cleaning and treatments:

• Gentle saline cleaning may be advised for minor wound discharge
• Use only veterinary-recommended topical treatments
• Never apply home remedies or human medications without professional guidance

When you should be worried about wounds in dogs

Seek immediate veterinary attention if:

• Your dog has large or deep wounds exposing underlying tissue or bone
• Bleeding won’t stop, despite applying pressure for 10-15 minutes
• Signs of infection appear: increasing discharge, foul smell, excessive swelling or red streaking
• Your dog shows systemic illness: lethargy, loss of appetite, fever or vomiting
• Wounds fail to show healing progress after 2-3 days of appropriate care

Call for professional guidance if:

• Your dog has small cuts or grazes and you’re unsure about home treatment
• Your dog has suffered an animal bite, regardless of apparent severity
• Wound care isn’t progressing as expected
• Your dog shows signs of pain or discomfort

In Dubai’s climate, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Wounds can deteriorate rapidly in hot, humid conditions.

Worried about your dog’s wound?

Even minor injuries can become serious quickly in Dubai’s hot, dusty climate. Book a checkup or emergency appointment today at Modern Vet Hospital in Dubai. Our experienced team provides safe wound cleaning, infection prevention, and emergency care when needed.