If your dog gets burned, time is critical. Taking quick action helps stop the damage and lowers the risk of infection. Burns are painful and dangerous—even a few minutes can make a big difference. Whether the burn is caused by an open flame, scalding water, an overheated surface, or chemicals, your dog needs immediate first aid. There are some important steps you can take right away.
First Aid Steps for Burned Dogs
1. Stay Calm and Restrain Your Dog
Dogs in pain may be scared or may bite. If it's safe to do so, gently muzzle your dog. Don’t proceed unless you can safely control them. Speak in a calm, soothing voice.
2. Cool the Burn Immediately
You need to cool the burn as soon as possible. Run cool (not cold) water over the area for at least 10 minutes. For smaller burns, you can apply sterile saline or use a clean cloth soaked in cool water and gently place it over the burn. Never apply ice, butter, or creams, they can make the injury worse.
3. Trim the Hair Around the Burn (if it doesn’t cause pain or stress)
If your dog tolerates it, and starting from a safe distance around the wound, carefully clip the hair to prevent fur and dirt from contaminating the burn. Be cautious not to cause more discomfort.
4. Lightly Cover the Area
Use a clean, non-stick sterile dressing or cloth. Avoid wrapping too tightly. Keep the area clean and dry until your dog can be examined by a vet.
5. Get to the Vet Immediately
Burns can appear smaller than they really are. Internal tissue damage and infection risks are common. A veterinarian can accurately assess the injury and provide necessary treatment. For severe burns, your dog may need pain relief, antibiotics, or even surgery.
What Type of Burn Is It?
First-Degree Burns
-
Red skin and mild swelling
-
Painful but superficial
-
Still requires attention to prevent infection
Second-Degree Burns
-
Blistering and deeper skin damage
-
Very painful
-
Needs immediate veterinary care
Third-Degree Burns
-
Charred or white, leathery skin
-
May involve nerve damage
-
This is a true emergency—go to the vet or an animal ER immediately
Be Prepared Before It Happens
Create a canine first-aid kit with the following essentials:
-
Sterile saline solution
-
Silver sulfadiazine ointment (ask your vet first)
-
Gauze pads and non-stick dressings
-
Medical tape
-
Tweezers and scissors
-
Digital thermometer
-
A soft, safe muzzle
-
Emergency vet contact information
Having your dog suffer a burn is terrifying, but you don’t have to face it alone. Acting quickly and staying calm can significantly reduce your dog’s pain and risk of complications. Your pet is counting on you to act, trust your vet to handle the rest.
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/first-aid-for-a-dog-burns/
