The last thing any pet parents want is for their dog to get hurt. But what do you do if your dog gets a minor cut or scrape? A first aid ointment for dogs can help to alleviate any discomfort and prevent infection from minor cuts and abrasions.
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Related: Antibacterial Wipes For Dogs, The Best Dog First Aid Kit For Hiking, Hydrocortisone Spray For Dogs
Disclaimer: This post is meant to be informative and should not be taken as medical advice. Talk to your veterinarian regarding any health concerns you may have for your dog.
What Is A First Aid Ointment For Dogs?
A first aid ointment is a medicated salve that can help to decrease the spread of infection and help minor wounds heal.
Depending on what medication is in the ointment, it can kill any bacteria that was in the wound, as well as block any new bacteria from getting into the wound by creating a barrier around it.
Which Ointment Is Best For Wound Healing For Dogs?
If your dog suffers from any injury, it is always best to check with your veterinarian before administering any ointment to be sure it is the right one for your dog’s condition.
Most first aid ointments for dogs contain a combination of certain medications, some of which include:
- Benzocaine. This acts as an anesthetic to decrease pain.
- Benzoic Acid. Used to prevent infection.
- Hydrocortisone. Helps to decrease inflammation.
- Salicylic Acid. This can help to slough off dead skin cells and act as an antibacterial.
- Malic Acid. This can also be used to rid the wound of dead cells and also acts as an anti-inflammatory.
- Silver. Acts as an antimicrobial against bacteria, yeast, and viruses.
- Manuka Honey. This helps to clear the wound from debris, decreases inflammation, sterilizes wounds, and stimulates healing.
Is Topical Ointment Safe For Dogs?
Topical ointment made for dogs is safe to administer. Again, check with your veterinarian before administering any first aid ointment to be sure you are using the right kind for your dog and their wound.
Can I Use Neosporin On My Dog?
While it may be tempting to use Neosporin on your dog, it is best to use a first aid ointment specifically designed to be used on dogs.
Dogs tend to lick be their wounds, and if you put a first aid ointment on it that is not meant for dogs, they will ingest it when they lick the area.
This can then cause an upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting.
If you do opt to use Neosporin, you may want to keep the wound lightly covered to help prevent your dog from licking the area.
What Is The Fastest Way To Heal An Open Wound On A Dog?
If your dog gets hurt and has a minor wound, first, rinse off the wound with mild soap and water. This will help to clean out any dirt and debris that may be in the wound.
For a minor scrape or cut, after cleaning out the area, apply first aid ointment.
If your dog is a licker, loosely cover the wound. Do not put the gauze on too tightly, as this may then cut off any circulation to the area, thus preventing the wound from healing.
Can I Use Hydrogen Peroxide On My Dog?
It is best not to put hydrogen peroxide on your dog’s wound.
Firstly, it may sting and cause more pain to your dog.
Second, using hydrogen peroxide can actually cause more harm than good and result in the wound taking longer to heal.
How Often Should I Wash My Dog’s Wound?
It is best to clean a wound on your dog at least three times a day.
If you have any concerns, speak to your veterinarian about how best to care for your dog’s wound.
Best First Aid Ointment For Dogs
Here are 5 first aid ointments for dogs. Product information is according to the manufacturer. We included medicated ointments, as well as a few non-medicated options.
Best Overall First Aid Ointment For Dogs
Derma-Clens Dermatologic Cream
This ointment contains 3 active ingredients to help protect the wound and promote healing.
- Promotes healing.
- Relieves non-living tissue from wounds, abrasions, and burns.
- Creates a protective barrier.
- Contains Benzoic Acid, Malic Acid, and Salicylic Acid.
Best Homeopathic First Aid Ointment For Dogs
HomeoPet HP Healing Cream
This ointment uses essential oils and natural herbs to help reduce swelling and pain resulting from your dog’s wound.
- Treats minor cuts, wounds, bites, and burns.
- Homeopathic.
- Helps reduce swelling and pain.
- Chemical free.
- Steroid free.
- Uses natural herbs and essential oils.
- Made in the USA.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Petco, Walmart
Best First Aid Ointment For Inflammation
Zymox Topical Cream Inflammation Relief Hydrocortisone
This ointment contains hydrocortisone to treat infections and promote wound healing.
- For skin infections, hot spots, and wounds.
- Helps treat skin infections from bacteria, fungus, and yeast.
- Contains either 0.5% or 1.0% hydrocortisone.
- Non-toxic.
- Made in the USA.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Petco, Petsmart
Best Natural First Aid Ointment For Dogs
Absorbine Silver Honey Rapid Wound Repair Ointment
This ointment uses silver and honey to protect the wound while also keeping it moisturized.
- Contains Manuka Honey which has antibacterial properties.
- Has MicroSilver BG which is a broad spectrum antimicrobial.
- pH balanced.
- Moisturizes while it heals.
- Protects the skin’s natural microbiome.
Check Price At: Amazon, Petsmart, Chewy
Best Pain Relieving First Aid Ointment For Dogs
Sulfodene 3-Way Ointment For Dogs
This ointment contains ingredients that can help to decrease pain and prevent infection.
- Contains Benzocaine and Salicylic Acid.
- Prevents infection.
- Relieves pain.
- Provides a barrier against germs.
- For use on minor cuts and scrapes.
- Treats hot spots.
Check Price At: Amazon, Chewy, Petco, Walmart
We all love our dogs and want to protect them. Seeing them hurting from a wound can be difficult. A first aid ointment for dogs can help their wound heal faster so they can get back to being their normal selves.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.