Applying a Bandage

When bandaging a paw, it’s important to pad all the spaces between the “toes”. Don’t forget the dewclaw either! If this is not done, wounds will quickly develop in these areas.

In a second step, the entire area to be covered should be well padded with cotton wool or a padding bandage. This means never wrapping a bandage directly onto the paw / leg without padding. This is only permissible if the covering bandage is to be applied for a short time, for example, on the way to the vet.

Finally, a simple gauze bandage is sufficient to cover the padding for a short time. Applying a final moisture barrier over the gauze bandage is quite useful.

It is very important, when using elastic, slightly adhesive bandages for this purpose, to ensure they are not too tight. Simply pulling the bandage off the roll causes a more or less significant stretching of the bandaging material. Under no circumstances should you apply it in such a stretched state over the gauze bandage.

A bandage that is too tight impairs or cuts off the blood supply to the area and quickly leads to severe pain for the animal, and even to the death of skin and tissue. The animal indicates the impairment merely by not putting weight on the paw and by gnawing at the bandage.

It’s best not to use elastic bandages at all, even if your bandage doesn’t look as professional.