Stitches

How do I keep my dog's stitches dry?

Any recommendations on keeping the stiches dry while I'm at the lake would be splendid. This is precautionary as I know she likes being close to us, and she likes to get her paws in the water. Also, if I take her back to the city for the vet to remove the stitches half way through my vacation, will she be able to swim when we return to the lake?

Public Comments

1. I would say it depends on where the stitches are and how much stress would be put on the wound. I wouldn't let her become too over active after the stitches are out...and if she does go swimming make sure you clean off the wound and disinfect it as the lake water might carry bacteria that could cause problems. To keep them dry I would just wrap them in gauze and bandages (ace bandages are also useful) and just change them out if they get wet...stitches need air so making it completely waterproof might not be the best thing unless it's okay'd by the vet...it could cause bacteria around the stitching to incubate faster and cause infection. Just keep them as dry as possible with regular bandages and keep it clean and your doggy should be fine!!!!