Bandage is a broad term by which one associatively understands a postoperative blanket that protects the suture from mechanical damage. In fact, a dog bandage is not only a post-operative accessory, but also a tight elastic belt for the joints, a product to support the spinal column, and a “garment” for inclement weather, but first things first.

Tight bandages for joint support or protection

Active pets are often injured on walks – a bad jump, an overly enthusiastic game with pals, an ill-timed turn while running or just a bump that the dog twists his paw on. A sprained or torn tendon is a painful injury that requires the joint to be relieved of stress, meaning the dog should not be able to bend and unbend the limb in order for it to heal.

For joint injuries, a rigid bandage is used that is secured around the injured area with Velcro. When a dog fails to jump, the joints in the front paws are most often affected. After examination by the veterinarian, a stiff belt is put on the dog’s paw and tightened to a reasonable maximum. The owner needs to keep a close eye on the limb, swelling or swelling are signs of poor circulation, which can have serious consequences. If the hippocampus joints are damaged, bandages are worn on the hind legs.

In addition to joint bands, there are support belts, corsets and vests. Pets with disproportionate body structures, especially dachshunds, are prone to joint dysplasia and various spinal abnormalities. A veterinary examination may reveal that the dog feels pain in the back, although outwardly it may not be noticeable. Bandage for a dog with spinal problems is prescribed both for the manifestation of symptoms of the disease and for prevention.

In cases of hip dysplasia or TB surgery, a bowtie bandage is placed on the dog’s hind hips, which fixes the amplitude of the swing of the paws. In this way, the joints remain intact until natural fixation (new cartilage buildup). With improper formation or developmental abnormalities, which are common in small breeds, there is a risk of cervical tendon stretching. To correct this, a rigid corset vest is used to fix the scapulae and cervical region of the animal. The measure is used to gradually stretch the tendons and slow down the deforming processes.

Bandage as a garment for dogs

The product is made in the form of a cape or overalls. Depending on the purpose, the clothing is divided into summer, winter and protective. Summer capes are sewn from light, light-colored fabric or cooling fabric, the main function is to protect against ticks and overheating. Winter clothing is optional for most, even short-haired breeds. Naked and miniature dogs, pets with thermoregulatory issues or regular colds need an “extra coat.” The most common clothing option is a suit of non-soaking fabric that protects the pet from dirt in inclement weather.

Bandages to protect sutures and scars

Cavity surgery is quite a difficult procedure, not only because of the extensive anesthesia, but also in terms of post-operative rehabilitation. Dogs, instinctively lick wounds, which has a twofold effect. Their saliva contains antiseptic and millions of pathogenic bacteria, and the dog can lick the wound so intensively that it deforms or loosens the stitch. Particularly adventurous pets chew through the surgical threads, which can cause the suture to open. The “safest” and at the same time, the most common damage to the scar is partial dilation due to the dog bending over to lick it.

It should be noted that the postoperative bandage for dogs is not always used. The relevance of the application should be clarified with the veterinarian. If your pet is going to have surgery, it is worth taking care of the availability of a protective blanket in advance. It is advisable to have several removable garments in case the bandage needs to be washed.

Bandages are industrially made

Sewn to standard proportions, postoperative bandages differ only in size. Before buying, you should measure the length of your back, from the base of your neck to the tail, and the circumference of your chest at its widest point. Carefully read the characteristics of the product, bandages used after surgery, are disposable or cloth. Nuances worth paying attention to:

• The naturalness of the fabric – cotton, satin.
• The presence of edgings.
• How to secure – ties, zipper ties, Velcro, buttons, shoelaces, plastic buckles.
• Washing – in cold or hot water.
• The method of heat treatment – ironing, steam treatment.
• Availability of single-use undisturbed packaging.

Bandage from improvised means for a small dog

The most economical and not time-consuming process is to make a bandage for a dog out of pantyhose, if the pet is miniature, a sock will suffice. We cut the pant leg from the pantyhose, cut holes for the paws and head. You get a t-shirt on top, larger holes for the back paws on the bottom. The place where you cut the pant leg is trimmed with overstitching, and the wide tape is sewn into the circumference or sewn through.

Sew a postoperative bandage for a dog

The best option – to sew a bandage for a dog with his own hands. If you know how to sew socks, then sewing a bandage you “on the teeth”. To make a bandage you will need:

• A tape measure for measurements.
• A large piece of thin paper for a pattern.
• Sewing material.
• A long ruler, chalk or a piece of soap.
• Needle and thread for basting.
• Tape to trim the edges of the product.
• Laces, ribbons, Velcro, or other fasteners of your choice.

When putting on the bandage, start securing the ties from the neck and move to the tail. The harness should be firmly secured, but should not restrain the ward’s movements. Ties, ribbons or laces should be cut or hidden under the material. If the dog can reach for the ties with his teeth or catch them with the claws of his hind paw, there is a risk of damaging the stitching.