What should I do if my dog is bleeding?

The only time bleeding is considered to be normal is when a female dog is in its season. The bitch’s vulva will swell up producing some drips of blood. This should continue for only up to three weeks in normal cases. As compared to humans this will not be menstruation at all, but it rather shows that the female dog is getting ready for a mate.

Sores and wounds are the common causes of bleeding. Wounds will begin to bleed when they appear but should only bleed for a few minutes. Applying pressure to the wound using a sterile clean pad or cloth will encourage the bleeding to stop. Do not prematurely remove the pad as the bleeding will start again as you can unknowingly disturb the normal clotting processes forming on the surface of the wound. Bleeding will actually stop within 4 to 3 minutes the most when pressure has been applied. However, if the dog’s wound is large, make sure you seek advanced medical attention from your vet immediately.

In some cases, if the blood appears to jet out from the site then a blood vessel may have been cut. The bleeding in this instance must be stopped quickly as the dog may lose a lot of blood. Try to wrap the dog’s wound with bandage or any cloth material whilst applying pressure so as to stop the bleeding. Broad bandages work best.  After this you may then take the dog to the veterinary clinic as quickly as possible for treatment.
 
NEVER use a tourniquet unless you have tried all other methods and failed or if the dog appears to be at risk. Tourniquets may lead to the loss of the dog’s limb if it is applied incorrectly or left at the bleeding site for a long time duration. When using a tourniquet, try to place a soft sponge or sock on the area before you apply the tie so as to avoid crushing the limb.

Bleeding at times may also be seen at any opening of the dog. It can also happen during, periods of vomiting, urinating, and discharging faeces. Any excessive bleeding must be reported to the vet immediately. Look at the faeces for any noticeable signs of blood discharges from your pet dog. Bleeding in pets may lead to serious infection that’s why any bleeding incident needs immediate attention. At times your dog may get hurt or cut, however you must remember that your dog does not have the mouth to tell you that he has been hurt. Staying close to your dog and noticing its overt behaviors will easily help you identify if your dog is ill.

If you do not have that time to study your pets or look closely for their health, try to have regular appointments with the vet. Take your dog often to the veterinary clinic, so that it can get regularly checkups on its health. Most people think that it is just a waste of money, but believe me your vet can identify any signs of disease that is about to occur in your dog.

Disclaimer

This pet health article is for reference only.

If your pet is showing any symptoms or distress, and you suspect your pet is ill CONTACT YOUR VET IMMEDIATELY.