Pet Bandage Care Information

• Please ensure the dressing remains clean & dry at all time.
• The dressing must be covered with a sturdy, waterproof bag during trips outside (which must be removed after walks).
• Please ensure you follow the exercise restrictions given to you at discharge - you may need to keep your pet rested to make sure their bandage stays in place.

• Skin irritation or if any sores appear around the bandage edges.
• Sign of ‘strike through’ (defined as any bleeding or weeping becoming visible through the bandage).
• Swelling at the top or bottom of the bandage.
• If your pets’ toes are exposed, gently touch the toes to check for swelling, heat and moisture (The nails may look pushed apart if swelling has occurred).
• Also, check that the toes have normal sensation and do not appear discoloured or cold to the touch.

If you notice any of the above, please visit or contact the practice urgently, as this could indicate a serious issue with the bandage.

• The bandage comes off in any way, looks to have slipped or has a ‘bunched’ appearance.
• The Bandage becomes wet, even if the area is away from the wound or reason for the dressing to have been applied.
• The bandage appears to be significantly irritating your pet.
• Your pet is suddenly averse to using the bandaged limb.
• The dressing becomes ‘smelly’ in any way.

All of the above can indicate a problem with the bandage, and a member of our veterinary team should examine your pet.

Pets may try to lick or chew the bandage, which should be prevented. You can do so by fitting a buster collar for your pet; our nurses can assist you with sizing and offer ideas to prevent interference. If your pet does damage or removes the bandage, it will often need to be changed, and you should contact the practice as soon as possible. 

• Complications can include skin sores, wound infections, muscle wastage, reduced joint range of motion, limb necrosis secondary to swelling and blood supply compromise.