Wounds caused by fighting in dogs should be treated within the first 6 hours.

Bite wounds caused by a fight in your dog can pose a life-threatening risk depending on their location. Near East University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Department of Surgery lecturer and Near East University Animal Hospital physician Prof. Dr. Eser Özgencil says that wounds treated within the first 6 hours have a higher chance of uncomplicated healing.

Injuries resulting from fighting in dogs are common. Generally, bite wounds of small breed dogs exposed to fights of large breed dogs are among the most common traumas. In general, during the fight in dogs, the neck, chest, waist, abdomen, arm and leg areas are hit and injured. The wounds may not be seen because the body is covered with hair. These wounds cause extensive damage under the skin and are called "iceberg sores". For this reason, veterinary examination of our lovely friends after injuries can save lives.

Near East University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Department of Surgery lecturer and Near East University Animal Hospital physician Prof. Dr. Eser Özgencil warns that infections that may occur due to the proliferation of bacteria in bites that pierce the skin can have fatal consequences.

Bite wounds must be treated!

Since the canine teeth and jaws are so strong, the wounds they inflict can crush, puncture or even tear the muscles and skin. prof. Dr. Eser Özgencil says that these bites can puncture the chest wall or abdominal tissue, causing pus to collect in the chest and abdominal cavities. Neck bite wounds are also of particular importance as they can damage blood vessels, nerves, esophagus or trachea. In rare cases, bite wounds can also cause joint inflammation and bone marrow infection. If bite wounds are left untreated, subcutaneous connective tissue inflammation, abscesses, fistulas, or a generalized infection may also occur with the spread of bacteria from an infected bite wound to the surrounding area. For this reason, dogs suffering from bite injuries should be checked by a veterinarian.

Important first 6 hours after injury

Near East University Animal Hospital physicians Prof. Dr. Eser Özgencil said that more attention should be paid to bite wounds in dogs. prof. Dr. Eser Özgencil said, “In any case of injury, we need to go to a veterinarian immediately and control the infection of the wound. Wounds treated within the first 6 hours have a higher chance of uncomplicated healing.

keep the wound clean

prof. Dr. Eser Özgencil emphasizes that home care is also very important after veterinary intervention. prof. Dr. Özgencil said, “If your dog's wounds are closed, you need to keep the area clean and dry. It is also important to protect the wound by wearing a collar. “If the wound has been left open to heal or if a drain has been placed in the wound, regular cleaning of the area is also vital.” Stating that there may be changes in some behaviors of dogs due to the pain, fear and shock of the event, after the fight they experienced, Prof. Dr. Özgencil emphasizes that this process should be carried out with care and attention.