Assessment and Non-Bandaging Treatment of Third-degree Thermal Injury in the Dog: A Case Report

Abstract

Dogs– scalds are a significant concern in veterinary practice. The causes can vary with common sources including hot water, boiling liquids, heated surfaces, and household accidents. Factors such as age, breed, and environment may influence the likelihood of scald injuries in dogs. Human negligence can contribute to the occurrence of scald injuries therefore pet owners should be educated about potential hazards in the household to ensure a safe environment and provide proper supervision and significantly reduce the risk of scald injuries. Thermal burns cause a spectrum of injuries, ranging from superficial to deep, leading to local damage and potential systemic effects based on the severity. It is imperative that owners understand importance of the early pet evaluation by professionals, or to provide first aid. Accurate clinical estimation is crucial for effective treatment and prognosis. Throughout history, the calculation of the affected body surface area of the animal was based on different methods in human medicine. Recent studies showed this method as inaccurate and new calculations were proposed. Because of the wide diversity, a completely accurate method is not established in veterinary medicine yet. Although standard treatment of burns is not established in veterinary medicine, the administration of analgesics, antibiotics, and fluid therapy is frequently recommended as essential. To stimulate wound healing and prevent excessive pain, wound moisturize is recommended as a part of treatment. We report the assessment and treatment of four days old third-degree thermal burn injury in an adult Pekingese dog.