Traumatic Injuries & Laceration Repair
Dogs and cats are naturally curious and active, which can sometimes lead to unexpected injuries—whether from rough play, bite wounds, accidents with sharp objects, or encounters with vehicles or fencing. Even small wounds can quickly become infected or develop complications if left untreated. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we provide thorough and compassionate care for traumatic injuries in both cats and dogs. Our team uses safe, effective techniques to clean, suture, and treat wounds—ensuring proper healing, pain relief, and infection prevention every step of the way.
Our Wound Care Process Includes:
- Comprehensive Examination We begin by evaluating the extent of your pet’s injury. This may involve clipping hair, flushing the wound, and checking for deeper tissue involvement or foreign material.
- Wound Cleaning & Debridement All wounds are thoroughly cleaned to remove dirt, debris, bacteria, and damaged tissue. Debridement (removal of non-viable tissue) helps prevent infection and promotes faster healing.
- Suturing & Wound Closure If the wound is deep or gaping, we’ll suture it using absorbable or non-absorbable materials depending on the location. In some cases, wounds may be left open temporarily to allow drainage before final closure.
- Pain Management & Antibiotics We provide appropriate pain relief and prescribe oral or injectable antibiotics to reduce discomfort and prevent or treat infection. Tetanus protection may also be considered if applicable.
- Sedation or Anesthesia For more extensive injuries or anxious patients, sedation or general anesthesia may be required to safely and effectively treat the wound.
Dog Anesthesia: Here
Cat Anesthesia : Here
- Bandaging & Protection We apply protective bandaging when necessary to keep the wound clean and shielded from licking or trauma. In many cases, an e-collar (cone) is recommended to prevent self-trauma.
- Aftercare & Follow-Up You’ll receive detailed home care instructions, including how to monitor the wound, when to change bandages, medication dosing, and signs of potential complications. Follow-up visits may be recommended to ensure proper healing.
Emergency Care: When to Seek Immediate Help
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop within a few minutes
- Deep cuts, especially near joints or the abdomen
- Animal bite wounds
- Puncture wounds or embedded objects
- Swelling, discharge, or foul odor around a wound
- Signs of pain, limping, or lethargy after an injury
Even if a wound seems minor, it's best to have it professionally evaluated to avoid delayed healing, infection, or hidden complications beneath the skin.
If your pet has suffered a cut, bite, or other traumatic injury, call Whittington Veterinary Clinic at (337) 893-8522 for prompt evaluation and treatment. We’re committed to providing skilled, compassionate care to get your dog back to feeling their best.