DIY wound healing balm for dogs

The DIY Dog’s Best Friend: Creating a Soothing Wound Healing Balm at Home

Our canine companions are explorers at heart. They sniff, they dig, they chase, and sometimes, their adventures lead to minor scrapes, cuts, and abrasions. While serious injuries always require a vet’s attention, knowing how to care for minor wounds at home can bring comfort to your furry friend and promote faster healing.

This article will guide you through creating your own DIY wound healing balm for dogs. We’ll explore the benefits of natural ingredients, provide a step-by-step recipe, and offer essential tips for application and aftercare. This balm is intended for minor wounds only and should not replace professional veterinary care when needed.

Why Make Your Own Wound Healing Balm?

Choosing a DIY approach to wound care for your dog offers several advantages:

• Control Over Ingredients: You know exactly what’s going into the balm, avoiding potentially harmful chemicals, artificial fragrances, or harsh preservatives often found in commercial products.


• Natural & Gentle: The ingredients we’ll be using are generally recognized for their soothing, moisturizing, and naturally healing properties.


• Cost-Effective: Creating your own balm can be significantly cheaper than buying pre-made options, especially if you use it regularly.


• Bonding Experience: Preparing and applying the balm can be a calming and bonding experience for you and your dog.

Understanding the Ingredients: Nature’s Healing Helpers

The effectiveness of our DIY wound healing balm lies in the synergy of carefully selected natural ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what we’ll be using and why:

• Coconut Oil: A powerhouse of goodness, coconut oil is renowned for its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. It helps keep the wound hydrated, reduces irritation, and provides a barrier against infection. Coconut oil is easily absorbed and generally well-tolerated by dogs, even if they happen to lick a small amount.


• Beeswax: Beeswax acts as a natural emulsifier, binding the other ingredients together and creating a protective barrier over the wound. This barrier helps keep moisture in and prevents dirt and debris from entering. Beeswax also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.


• Shea Butter: Shea butter is a rich source of vitamins A and E, which are essential for skin health and repair. It’s deeply moisturizing, soothing, and helps reduce inflammation and itching. Shea butter also promotes collagen production, which is crucial for wound healing.


• Calendula-Infused Oil (Optional but Recommended): Calendula is a flowering plant known for its powerful healing properties. Infusing oil with calendula extracts its beneficial compounds, creating a potent ingredient for wound care. Calendula oil promotes wound closure, reduces inflammation, and possesses antiseptic properties. You can purchase pre-made calendula-infused oil or easily make your own (instructions below).


• Vitamin E Oil (Optional): Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and promotes skin regeneration. Adding a few drops of vitamin E oil to your balm can further enhance its healing properties.

Making Your Own Calendula-Infused Oil:

If you choose to make your own calendula-infused oil, here’s a simple method:

• Ingredients:
  
  
  • 1 cup dried calendula flowers (make sure they are organically grown and pesticide-free)
  
  
  • 1 cup carrier oil (olive oil, sunflower oil, or almond oil work well)
  
  
  
  


• Instructions:
  
  
  1. Place the dried calendula flowers in a clean, dry glass jar.
  
  
  2. Pour the carrier oil over the flowers, ensuring they are completely submerged.
  
  
  3. Seal the jar tightly and place it in a sunny location for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar gently every few days.
  
  
  4. After 4-6 weeks, strain the oil through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the flowers.
  
  
  5. Store the infused oil in a clean, airtight container in a cool, dark place.
  
  
  
  

The DIY Dog Wound Healing Balm Recipe

Now that you understand the ingredients, let’s get to the recipe! This recipe makes approximately 4 ounces of balm.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil


• 1 tablespoon beeswax pellets


• 1 tablespoon shea butter


• 1 tablespoon calendula-infused oil (or plain carrier oil)


• 5 drops Vitamin E oil (optional)

Equipment:

• Double boiler or heat-safe bowl and saucepan


• Spoon or spatula


• Small jars or tins for storage (4-ounce capacity)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Double Boiler: Fill the saucepan with about 2 inches of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place the heat-safe bowl on top of the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.


2. Combine Ingredients: Add the coconut oil, beeswax, and shea butter to the bowl.


3. Melt and Mix: Stir the ingredients gently and consistently until they are completely melted and well combined.


4. Remove from Heat: Carefully remove the bowl from the double boiler and place it on a heat-resistant surface.


5. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the calendula-infused oil (or plain carrier oil) and Vitamin E oil (if using).


6. Pour and Cool: Pour the mixture into the prepared jars or tins.


7. Cool and Harden: Allow the balm to cool completely at room temperature. This may take several hours. The balm will harden as it cools.


8. Label and Store: Once the balm is completely cool and hardened, label the jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. The balm should last for several months.

Important Considerations Before Application:

Before you start applying the balm, it’s crucial to assess the wound and ensure it’s appropriate for home care:

• Minor Wounds Only: This balm is designed for minor cuts, scrapes, and abrasions. Deep wounds, puncture wounds, or wounds that are bleeding heavily require immediate veterinary attention.


• Clean the Wound: Before applying the balm, thoroughly clean the wound with a mild antiseptic solution recommended by your veterinarian (e.g., diluted chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine). Gently pat the area dry with a clean cloth.


• Shave the Area (If Necessary): If the wound is surrounded by long fur, carefully trim or shave the fur around the area to prevent it from getting matted in the balm and further irritating the wound.


• Consider Your Dog’s Temperament: If your dog is sensitive or aggressive when touched, consider enlisting the help of another person to hold and calm them during the application process. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, to make the experience as pleasant as possible.


• Consult Your Vet: If you are unsure about the severity of the wound or have any concerns, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before attempting any home treatment.

Applying the Wound Healing Balm: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you’ve assessed the wound and prepared your dog, here’s how to apply the balm:

1. Wash Your Hands: Before touching the wound, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent the introduction of bacteria.


2. Scoop a Small Amount: Use a clean finger or spatula to scoop a small amount of the balm from the jar.


3. Warm the Balm: Gently rub the balm between your fingers to soften it. This will make it easier to apply.


4. Apply to the Wound: Gently apply a thin layer of the balm to the cleaned wound area. Avoid applying too much balm, as this can create a sticky residue that attracts dirt and debris.


5. Protect the Wound (If Necessary): If your dog is prone to licking the wound, you may need to use a bandage or an Elizabethan collar (cone) to prevent them from doing so.


6. Monitor the Wound: Check the wound regularly for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or increased pain.


7. Reapply as Needed: Reapply the balm 2-3 times per day, or as needed, to keep the wound moisturized and protected.

Post-Application Care and Monitoring:

Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring the wound heals properly and preventing complications:

• Prevent Licking: As mentioned earlier, preventing your dog from licking the wound is essential. Licking can introduce bacteria, delay healing, and even reopen the wound. Use a bandage, Elizabethan collar, or other deterrents as needed.


• Keep the Wound Clean: Regularly clean the wound with a mild antiseptic solution to prevent infection.


• Monitor for Infection: Keep a close eye on the wound for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, foul odor, or increased pain. If you notice any of these signs, consult your veterinarian immediately.


• Change Bandages Regularly: If you are using a bandage to protect the wound, change it regularly (at least once a day) to keep the area clean and dry.


• Provide a Nutritious Diet: A healthy diet is essential for wound healing. Make sure your dog is eating a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.


• Limit Activity: Avoid strenuous activity that could irritate or reopen the wound.


• Follow Up with Your Vet: If the wound does not show signs of improvement within a few days, or if you have any concerns, schedule a follow-up appointment with your veterinarian.

When to See a Vet: Knowing When DIY Isn’t Enough

While our DIY wound healing balm can be a valuable tool for caring for minor wounds, it’s crucial to recognize when professional veterinary care is necessary. Here are some situations where you should consult your veterinarian:

• Deep Wounds: Any wound that penetrates deep into the skin or muscle tissue requires veterinary attention.


• Puncture Wounds: Puncture wounds are particularly dangerous because they can introduce bacteria deep into the tissues.


• Heavy Bleeding: Wounds that are bleeding heavily or persistently require immediate veterinary care.


• Wounds Near Joints: Wounds located near joints can be prone to infection and may require specialized treatment.


• Signs of Infection: As mentioned earlier, any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or foul odor, warrant a visit to the vet.


• Wounds That Don’t Heal: If the wound does not show signs of improvement within a few days, or if it seems to be getting worse, consult your veterinarian.


• Animal Bites: Animal bites, even if they appear minor, can carry a risk of infection and may require antibiotics or other treatment.


• Burns: Burns, especially severe burns, require immediate veterinary care.


• If You’re Unsure: When in doubt, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with your veterinarian.

Final Thoughts:

Creating your own DIY wound healing balm for your dog can be a rewarding and beneficial experience. By using natural ingredients and following proper application and aftercare guidelines, you can help soothe minor wounds, promote faster healing, and provide comfort to your furry friend. Remember, this balm is intended for minor wounds only and should not replace professional veterinary care when needed. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s health. With a little knowledge and care, you can be your dog’s best friend when those little mishaps occur.

Featured Image Credit: Pixabay