Do staples fall out on their own dog?
Following an operation, some animals remove their own stitches or staples before the wounds are fully healed. Stitches or staples may pop out due to excessive activity and motion causing tension on the wound. Wound infection or wound breakdown (dehiscence) can also lead to stitches and staples coming out.
How do I know if my dogs staples are infected?
Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of the following:
Are the instructions for care of different types of surgical incisions the same?
The general instructions for incision care are the same for all surgical incisions.
Under no circumstances should a dog with a fresh surgical incision be allowed to run off leash. Restrict your dogs activity for a period of 7-14 days, to allow the incision to begin healing. When you do take your dog outdoors, keep him on a short leash, and avoid long walks. Do not allow your dog to jump, rough-house with other dogs, or engage in any strenuous activity that could cause excessive stretching of the surgical incision, especially during the first few days after the operation. Excessive activity may cause the stitches to break apart, or may cause the incision to start bleeding.
Your veterinarian may prescribe cage rest or confinement in a small room in certain circumstances.
Do not bathe your dog or allow the incision to get wet. Never apply any cream, ointment, disinfectant, or other substance to the incision unless specifically instructed to do so by your veterinarian. In particular, NEVER clean the incision with hydrogen peroxide or alcohol since these products will damage the cells and delay healing.
Do not allow your dog to lick or scratch at the incision, as there is a danger that the dog may pull out the stitches or may introduce an infection into the incision.
As long as the incision is not bandaged, inspect it at least twice daily. If a surgical drain was placed in the incision, you may be instructed to clean the drain several times per day. Your veterinarian will advise you when to return to your veterinary clinic to have the drain removed.
FAQ
What happens if your dog eats staples?
What to do if dog removes staples?
How long does it take for dog staples to heal?