The need to have the contact numbers of the vet in a conspicuous place cannot be stressed enough. Dogs are highly energetic and no matter how a dog owner tries, accidents can never be prevented. A dog would come home one day dripping blood on the floor. Abrasions, deep gashes, cuts and lacerations are common injuries of dogs. Because dogs have the inclination to raid trash cans and to fight with other dogs, these types of injuries are common. The fur of the dog protects the skin but a broken glass, a barbed wire or a jagged tin would still cause lacerations. Dogs love tormenting cats and one that is chasing a cat may rush into a glassed off window.

Because of the active lifestyle it is common for dogs to get lacerated. A laceration is the irregular or jagged tearing of the dog's tissues. Although there are minor lacerations, this type of injury is commonly deep to be able to go through the thickness of the skin to damage the tissues and the structures under the skin. A deep cut can damage the muscles and can sever blood vessels and tendons. This kind of laceration is oftentimes life threatening.

To be able to know the extent of the damage, the injured dog must be examined. Approaching the dog must be done with caution as the pain can make the pet snap. The dog must be muzzled or restrained by another person. Because lacerations would bleed, it would be easy to figure out the location of the dog's injuries.

Minor laceration can be treated at home especially if the dog owner is competent in administering first aid. Serious lacerations would need a vet's attention as suturing may be necessary. Serious lacerations would bleed heavily thus measures that will stop the bleeding must be administered lest the dog go into shock because of blood loss. Bleeding can be controlled by using a clean cloth or a bandaging material to directly apply pressure to the wound.

Superficial lacerations can be treated at home using the contents of the first aid kit. After the bleeding was controlled, the laceration must be flushed with lukewarm water to remove any debris. By washing the laceration, infection will be minimized and the owner will also have the chance to fully examine the injury of the pet. The laceration must be covered with sterile bandage to keep the wound free of dirt.

Find out more about lacerations as well as first aid for dogs at Sarah's Dogs.