Is it normal for a dog’s stitches to ooze? Here’s What to Expect

Different Types of Stiches Used For Dogs

The term “sutures” is used to describe the wound-closing material surgeons use to put the two ends of the wound together. There are different types of sutures, and they can be classified based on many criteria.

Based on absorbability, sutures can be classified as follows:

  • Absorbable: As the name suggests, they get absorbed and do not need to be removed. Their absorption is enabled by tissue enzymes, or in simpler terms, the body is capable of naturally “digesting” them.
  • Non-Absorbable: The non-absorbable sutures cannot be digested by the bodys enzymes. Instead, they need to be removed later on or, if necessary, left to stay in permanently.
  • 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.care_of_surgical_incisions_dog_2018-01

    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.

    What does an infected dog incision look like?

    When to be concerned about your dog’s stitches

    There are several unmistakable signs of an infected wound. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of the following: Continuous blood or fluids dripping from the incision site. Excessive pus or seepage of white or yellow fluid.

    Good: It is normal for a surgical wound site to have some fluid come out of the incision area – this is one of the ways our bodies naturally heal themselves. Drainage can either be clear or slightly yellow in color, and will usually occur for around the first two to three days following the procedure.

    5 Possible Complications After Spaying Your Dog

    [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The days and weeks directly following your dog’s surgery can be a time of mixed emotions – you’re relieved the actual procedure is over, but you know you’re not necessarily out of the woods just yet. As your dog recovers, there’s always a risk that their surgical incision will reopen, become infected, or won’t heal correctly.

    The good news is that with proper post-surgical care on your part, these risks decrease greatly. We hope these tips will help.