How to Use Betadine for Dog Wounds
There are several Betadine formulations on the market. Before choosing one, its a good idea to do some homework. For instance, consider that the scrub version contains povidone-iodine and a detergent, making it suitable only for use on intact skin. You therefore want to look for a version containing 10% iodine in it that doesnt contain the detergent and has lower cytotoxic effects.
Things to Consider When Using Betadine
It burns. You must always dilute it prior to its use. Betadine is normally a dark brown color, so youll have to dilute it with water until its a weaker tea color. Applying it as is without diluting can damage tissue. If you are looking for ratios, one part of it to 10 parts water is a good guideline.
What about hydrogen peroxide? You may have heard about this alternative, but hydrogen peroxide doesnt have much value as an antiseptic and actually kills healthy tissue, which is why it foams.
According to Vet Street, “The fizz created when it interacts with tissue makes it seem like something good is happening. Hydrogen peroxide, in fact, inflames the healthy skin around a wound, which increases healing time. Recent studies have shown that it’s not even an effective antibacterial.” The only reason you see hydrogen peroxide in a dogs first aid kit is because it can be used to induce vomiting.
What about alcohol? Do not use alcohol, because it burns. It is also a drying agent and causes a delay in the healing process. The main reason why alcohol is in a dogs first aid kit is to disinfect thermometers after use for fevers.
The main products used as antiseptics for dog wounds are therefore Betadine (povidone-iodine) and Nolvasan (chlorhexidine diacetate). In this article, we will be mainly focusing on Betadine.
What can you put on dog wounds?
Warm tap water is recommended for cleaning most wounds. Warm saline (salt solution) may also be used. This may be made by adding approximately one level teaspoonful (5 mL) of salt (or Epsom salts) to two cups (500 mL) of water.