bedsores

[ritamb]

My basset hound had surgery for a ruptured disk two weeks ago and has recently developed bed sores. I have tried to keep him clean and dry, but he is on prednisone and urinates frequently. I have tried diapers, pads, towels and blankets between his legs, but he is not yet walking and I need to know what to do to cure these sores. I am washing the area frequently and drying it, and then applying an first aid anitbiotic ointment. What else can I do? Thank you, Rita

[Jaybay]

I think he needs antibiotics, so give your vet a call.  He'll probably just have you come by and pick up the meds without putting your dog through a car trip.  On the other hand, he may want to send a sample of the material in the sores to a lab for analysis.  You won't know until you make the call.  You're doing everything right, but bed sores are notoriously difficult to treat in both humans and animals who are bedridden.

Since urine is an issue, have you tried diapers made specially for dogs, or are you trying to rig up something using human baby diapers?  Do a google search for "dog diapers" and you'll be surprised at the number of products available for this purpose - as well as females in heat.  Because they are made specifically for dogs, they're much more effective.  

I hope your pup gets well soon!  :-)

[ritamb]

Thank you for the information. I have tried the doggie diapers but his medication makes him urinate frequently, however, the vet is weining him off of it. He is very good about letting me know when he needs to go out. But sometimes at night we don't make it in time. Thanks again