How do Bite Wounds Happen?
Bite wounds are a common reason veterinarians see dogs in their clinics. Bite wounds can occur from puppies playing or an aggressive adult dog. If a dog feels its territory, food, or owner’s attention are being threatened by another dog, a dog may react in a protective or fearful way by biting. Be aware of the dogs at your local dog park and stay away if you know there is an aggressive dog. Some bite wounds can be serious, especially if a dog has shaken the dog it is biting. Skin and soft tissue can be sheared, making the treatment and healing of these wounds challenging.
When Should I See My Veterinarian After My Dog Has Been Bitten?
Dogs with bite wounds should be seen immediately, especially if the wound is severe, and to prevent infection. Dog park bite wounds should especially be seen quickly, as there is a large amount of bacteria at dog parks. If your dog has a severe bite, apply a compress to help slow or stop the bleeding until you reach your emergency clinic.
How are Bite Wounds Treated?
Wounds that are smaller may not need more than ointment, antibiotics and NSAIDs, but larger wounds may need to be sutured closed. Your veterinarian may clip the hair around the wound to better examine and treat it. If a wound is near the abdomen or chest, your veterinarian may require radiographs to make sure no internal structures were damaged. Wounds that are sutured closed may require a stent for drainage. You should notify your veterinarian quickly if you notice the wound appears to worsen which could include redness, inflammation, or pustular discharge. Your veterinarian may provide an e-collar to prevent your dog from licking its wounds.
Regenaflex-M is a sterile bioscaffold membrane that contains growth factors, cytokines, and exosomes — factors demonstrated to stimulate healing by delivering a cell-signaling cascade to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and decrease scarring. Regenaflex-M contains antimicrobial properties, acts as an adhesion barrier, and helps reduce scar tissue development. The membrane can be utilized on bite wounds to help promote healing. Regenaflex-M can be used on smaller wounds and covered with gauze to keep the wound protected. The membrane can also be used on larger wounds that need to be sutured closed, by tucking the membrane into the wound and suturing over. Lastly, the membrane can be used on non-healing wounds to help even the most stubborn lacerations heal.
Regenaflex-Gel can also be used for smaller wounds where a membrane is not necessary. Regenaflex-gel is a 100% natural topical gel containing a proprietary mix of cytokines, exosomes, & growth factors that studies have shown help to accelerate tissue healing and minimize scar tissue formation. It is applied morning and evening with two drops on the affected area. Ask your veterinarian if Regenaflex-M and Regenaflex-Gel could be beneficial options for your dog’s bite wounds.
References:
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- Farhadihosseinabadi B, Farahani M, Tayebi T, et al. Amniotic membrane and its epithelial and mesenchymal stem cells as an appropriate source for skin tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Artificial Cells Nanomed Biotech 2018;46:431-440.
- Galera, Paula D et al. “Proteomic analysis of equine amniotic membrane: characterization of proteins.” Veterinary ophthalmology vol. 18,3 (2015): 198-209.
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