Bandage and Splint Care Instructions

The purpose of the bandage is to keep the area of the limb protected and immobile to allow healing of soft tissue or bone.

Keep the bandage clean and dry at all times - if the bandage becomes soiled or wet, it must be changed immediately to prevent infection of the skin underneath the bandage. You can use protective coverings over the bandage when the pet goes outside, but do not leave them on all the time as they can create moisture underneath the bandage and cause infection of the skin.

Watch for swelling of the toes or swelling of the areas below the bandage. If there is swelling, this indicates that the bandage has become too tight - this is an emergency situation and the bandage needs to be loosened immediately to prevent circulation problems.

Do not allow your pet to chew or lick the bandage as your pet could cause the bandage to slip or become too tight, or even remove the bandage altogether in a very short period of time. If the bandage is damaged by the pet it should be checked by the veterinarian to be sure it does not need to be replaced.

Watch the bandage for slippage - if you could see the toes peeking out when it was first applied, but now you cannot see the toes, the bandage has slipped and needs to be rechecked.

Check the bandage for foul odors - a bad smell coming from the bandage could indicate infection or a bandage that is cutting into the skin or rubbing the skin raw over bony areas. Consider a foul odor under the bandage to be an emergency situation.

Restrict your pet’s activity while the bandage is in place. Leash walks outside to eliminate wastes should be the only outdoor activity. Encourage rest while your pet is healing.

If you have any questions or problems, please do not hesitate to call us. We are here to help you and your pet and will gladly address any questions you may have.