Dog Surgical Wound Looks Infected? Signs, Treatment, and When to See a Vet

When your dog comes home after surgery, you expect them to be on the mend. But sometimes, complications arise, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or your dog licking or chewing at the incision site. Surgical wounds are delicate, and improper healing can lead to infection, pain, or even a second procedure. Knowing what’s normal and what’s not after surgery can make all the difference in the healing process of a surgical wound in your dog.

Understanding the Healing Timeline

What to Expect in the First Few Days

After surgery, your dog’s incision site will typically look clean and closed, possibly with some redness and swelling for the first 24–48 hours. You might see surgical staples or sutures, and mild bruising is also normal. Your vet may prescribe antibiotics or pain medication during this period to support healing.

Normal Healing vs. Warning Signs

The wound should gradually improve over a week. By day 5 to 7, you should notice reduced redness and swelling, no new discharge, and your dog acting more like themselves. But if the incision looks worse instead of better, or if your dog starts licking obsessively, shaking, or acting withdrawn, something may be wrong.

Common Dog Surgical Wound Complications

Redness and Swelling That Get Worse

While some inflammation is expected, increasing redness or swelling after the first few days could indicate infection or irritation, especially if the area becomes warm or painful to the touch.

Discharge or Bleeding

Clear fluid or minimal blood-tinged discharge can be normal immediately post-op. However, thick yellow, green, or foul-smelling discharge points to infection. Active bleeding after 24 hours should also be checked by your vet.

Gapping or Open Sutures

If you notice the incision is opening up, appears stretched, or you can see underlying tissue, this is a sign that sutures may have come loose, or your dog has been licking or scratching the area. An open wound can delay healing and risk infection.

Excessive Licking or Chewing

Dogs instinctively want to lick wounds, but doing so can undo sutures and introduce bacteria. Even one night without a cone can undo days of healing. Excessive licking is one of the top causes of surgical site infections.

Signs of Pain or Fever

If your dog becomes unusually tired, stops eating, or develops a fever (e.g., warm ears, panting, trembling), this could signal a systemic infection. Don’t wait, and call your vet immediately.

What To Do If Dog Surgical Wound Is Infected

Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately

If you notice any of the above symptoms, especially swelling, discharge, pain, or open stitches, your first step should be to contact your vet. Try to describe what you’re seeing clearly, and if possible, send a photo of the wound. Most clinics will guide you on whether your dog needs to be seen urgently.

You can reach out to Cuddlytails vet here.

Keep the Area Clean and Dry

Avoid bathing your dog or allowing the wound to get wet unless your vet has specifically instructed otherwise. Moisture can disrupt healing and create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.

If the wound has become dirty or wet, gently blot it with a clean, dry cloth. Do not apply human creams, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol, as they can damage tissue and slow healing.

Prevent Further Licking or Scratching

Ensure your dog is always wearing a protective cone or e-collar. If the traditional plastic cone is too uncomfortable, ask your vet about soft or inflatable alternatives. You can also use recovery suits or wound covers to provide added protection.

What to Expect at the Veterinary Visit

Initial Prognosis

Your veterinarian will examine the surgical wound on your dog, checking for infection, dehiscence, or fluid buildup. They’ll assess your dog’s overall health, including temperature and hydration, and ask about symptoms, activity levels, and adherence to post-surgical care instructions. In some cases, sedation may be needed to clean or repair the wound thoroughly.

Diagnostic Tests

To determine the cause and extent of the complication, your vet may perform tests. A wound culture can identify specific bacteria causing an infection, guiding antibiotic choice. Blood work may check for systemic infection or underlying issues affecting healing. Imaging, like X-rays or ultrasounds, can detect abscesses or foreign material (e.g., broken stitches). For recurrent complications, skin tests may rule out allergies or immune issues.

How to Support Proper Healing 

Monitor the Incision Daily

Check the incision at least once a day in a well-lit area. Take note of any changes and track them with photos if needed. This helps you spot any worsening conditions early and gives your vet a visual timeline if needed.

Administer Medications as Prescribed

If your vet prescribed antibiotics or pain medications, give them exactly as directed, even if your dog seems better. Stopping antibiotics early can allow infections to rebound, potentially making things worse.

Keep Your Dog Rested and Calm

Too much movement, too soon, can stress the wound. Avoid running, jumping, stairs, or rough play until your vet says it’s safe. Use a crate, playpen, or a leash indoors if necessary to restrict activity.

Preventing Future Dog Surgical Wound Complications

Follow Post-Surgical Instructions

After any surgery, adhere to your vet’s guidelines, including activity restrictions, medication schedules, and wound care protocols. Ensure your dog wears a cone or recovery suit for the full recommended period, even if the wound looks healed.

Maintain Regular Veterinary Care

Schedule routine vet visits to monitor your dog’s overall health and catch issues like allergies or infections that could complicate wound healing. Pre-surgical health screenings can identify risks, such as immune deficiencies, that may affect recovery. Stay current on vaccinations and parasite prevention to reduce infection risks.

Promote Skin and Immune Health

Feed a high-quality, balanced diet to support healing and immune function. Omega-3 supplements, as advised by your vet, can reduce inflammation and improve skin health, minimizing scratching. Ensure your dog stays hydrated with constant access to fresh water, as dehydration can slow healing.

Minimize Stress and Activity

Keep your dog calm during recovery by maintaining a consistent routine and avoiding stressors like loud noises or new environments. Use calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers, for anxious dogs. Restrict activity for the full recovery period, typically 10–14 days, to prevent wound strain. Use a leash for outdoor trips, even in the yard, to control movement.

Conclusion

Surgical wounds require time, patience, and attentive care. While complications are never ideal, they’re not uncommon, and they don’t mean something went horribly wrong. What matters most is how quickly and carefully you respond. With close monitoring, a protective cone, and support from your vet, most dogs bounce back beautifully.

FAQs

How do I know if my dog’s surgical wound is infected?

Signs include increased redness, swelling, pus, foul odor, or fever (lethargy, warm ears). Contact your vet immediately if these appear, as infections require prompt treatment.

What should I do if my dog’s surgical wound opens?

Prevent licking with a cone, restrict activity, and call your vet immediately. Do not clean or touch the wound.

Why is my dog licking their surgical wound?

Licking soothes discomfort but can cause infection or dehiscence. Ensure a cone or recovery suit is worn, and consult your vet for underlying issues like pain or allergies.

Can I clean my dog’s surgical wound at home?

Only clean the wound if instructed by your vet, using prescribed solutions like chlorhexidine.

When is a surgical wound complication an emergency?

Seek emergency care for heavy bleeding, strong odor, significant wound opening, or symptoms like vomiting, fever, or collapse, as these indicate serious complications.