No matter how careful you are, your dog is almost guaranteed to get at least the occasional scrape or cut.
As long as these small injuries aren’t deep, they’re usually quite harmless and relatively unpainful, yet it’s still very important to treat them quickly and properly.
This means cleaning the area to remove any dirt or debris present and putting a barrier in place to protect it while it’s healing, as well as prevent any bleeding or oozing.
Whereas traditional bandages can be hard to keep on your dog, liquid bandages are convenient and work wonders.
Are Liquid Bandages Safe for Dogs?
Although they’re not the ideal remedy for some injuries, liquid bandages are great for wounds that occur in places that are susceptible to re-opening.
In many ways, they serve the same purpose as a scab, but rather than having a scab that constantly cracks, the bandage flexes with your dog’s skin.
Liquid bandages are safe to use on your dog’s minor scrapes, cuts, and abrasions, provided that you take the following precautions:
- Always clean the wound thoroughly before applying the liquid bandage.
- Be sure to reapply the liquid bandage only as needed and as directed.
- Never use liquid bandages on hot spots or areas that are seeping pus, or are otherwise infected.
What Are Liquid Bandages Used For?
Liquid bandages act like a glue, adhering to your dog’s skin. They form a protective barrier that keeps bacteria, dirt, and other things that can cause infection and lead to pain.
They’re a wonderful alternative to traditional bandages since they can be used in hard to reach areas like the tail, as well as on skin that flexes a lot, like the elbows.
Besides, many pet owners find that liquid bandages work extremely well for helping to heal and protect tears in their dog’s paws and nails, as might result from cuts to the cuticle.
Below are the best liquid bandages for dogs.
What Are the Best Liquid Bandages for Dogs?
1. KeriCure Tough Seal Pet Liquid Bandage
Available in two-ounce bottles, this liquid bandage is very easy to use, as you can simply spray it on wherever your dog needs protection.
It forms a tough, nano polymer barrier that blocks out germs and other harmful bacteria from your dog’s cuts and wounds. The bandage dries very quickly, is waterproof to boot, and naturally falls off within a few days.
This makes it not only useful on minor cuts and wounds, but also for helping to soothe and protect irritated areas on your dog’s skin, as might result from insect bites.
On top of that, this water-based product is made from all-natural ingredients, which means there are no parabens or abrasive, irritating chemicals that you need to worry about.
Most pet owners report that KeriCure doesn’t seem to cause any initial stinging or discomfort when applied.
2. Medical Care First Aid Liquid Bandage
This liquid bandage provides four ounces of spray-on protection that’s both easy to apply and highly effective against infection from outside bacteria.
It has a built-in agent that’s safe if ingested, but still has an unpleasant, bitter taste, which will discourage your dog from licking.
Recommended by veterinarians, it soothes the skin and promotes healing by allowing oxygen to get past the bandage. On top of that, this durable product is waterproof and will fall off by itself after the healing process is complete.
The only drawback is that it takes up to a full minute or two before it’s completely dry.
3. Remedy + Recovery Liquid Bandage
Specifically formulated to suit your dog’s needs, this liquid bandage comes in a four-ounce spray bottle that thoroughly coats the area, providing a breathable yet tough barrier against bacteria, dirt, and infection.
Free from any toxic acrylics or plastics, it forms a polymer-based film that will naturally disappear once it’s no longer needed.
Plus, the product contains only seven ingredients, including aloe vera leaf juice to help soothe the skin and guard against irritation, and is alcohol-free, so it won’t sting.
4. Pet Ag EMT Liquid Bandage for Dogs
This liquid bandage is likened to a first-aid kit in a one-ounce tube, as it works to heal wounds and reduce pain and discomfort along with helping to prevent against infection.
It comes in a gel form, and while it doesn’t provide the kind of barrier we usually associate with liquid bandages, the texture does help to keeps germs, dirt, and bacteria out.
The product is non-toxic, and the active ingredient is collagen — a natural protein that acts as an adhesive and encourages wound healing while reducing scarring.
For those who prefer the convenience of a spray, it’s also available in that form.
5. Vetericyn Wound and Skin Care
This liquid bandage comes in a three-ounce bottle that can be easily sprayed onto wounds, scrapes, or bites on your dog’s skin.
Rather than being a classic liquid bandage, the gel forms a protective layer to manage moisture and allow wound healing. You also don’t have to worry about rinsing it, as the hydrogel will slowly evaporate.
Made in the USA without any harsh chemicals or dyes, it won’t stain or cause irritation, even in sensitive areas. Also, while it’s best to leave it alone, the product is non-toxic and safe if licked or ingested.
What Are the Benefits of Liquid Bandages?
Convenience: You don’t have to keep adjusting liquid bandages on active dogs or worry about them falling off. Liquid bandages are simply applied once, and the job is done.
Easy to Apply: Most liquid bandages come in a spray form that’s simple to use, while others need to be applied via a wand or applicator. Furthermore, liquid bandages are ideal at getting to otherwise hard to reach spots.
Breathable: Liquid bandages keep bacteria out of your dog’s wound while still allowing it to breathe, which reduces the chances of infection during the healing process.
How do Liquid Bandages Work?
Liquid bandages form a synthetic scab over the surface of a cut or wound. They do this by almost instantaneously adhering to the skin. The idea is that it keeps dirt and bacteria out while allowing oxygen in.
Keep in mind that they may sting slightly at first, but this sensation disappears quickly as the liquid dries. To speed along the process, you can blow on the bandage immediately after it’s applied.
Once it’s on, a liquid bandage usually lasts anywhere from 5-10 days, after which the seal will simply fall off on its own without causing irritation or pain.
Of course, you can reapply it afterwards, but it’s best to check with a veterinarian first, as most minor wounds will be healed considerably within this timeline.
If you have a dog that loves swimming and splashing in the water, liquid bandages are a great choice as well. Unlike other bandages, which can’t become wet, liquid bandages are actually waterproof, so they won’t wash off or become damaged.
Liquid Bandages vs Super Glue
Super glue is well-known for its ability to seal and bind minor wounds. While it can serve the same purpose as a liquid bandage (meaning it will keep dirt and bacteria out), it’s notoriously difficult to get off.
Additionally, super glue is thicker and denser than liquid bandages, so it doesn’t allow the cut to have as much access to oxygen, which is a vital component in the healing process.
Last but not least, many liquid bandages have added ingredients that help soothe your dog’s skin, while super glue can be somewhat irritating.
What Ingredients to Avoid in Liquid Bandages?
Liquid bandages are usually made from gentle chemicals that are safe for most dogs.
That said, there are some ingredients that you want to be sure to avoid, especially if your dog happens to ingest any of the product by licking.
Preferably, liquid bandages should be free from acrylics, alcohol, dyes, parabens, and aluminum chloride. If possible, it’s always best to look for a liquid bandage that boasts all-natural ingredients.
Above all else, it’s very important to only use liquid bandages that are specifically designed for pets. Never use human liquid bandages, as these are made out of different kinds of chemicals that are harsher and may cause adverse reactions to your dog’s skin.
For example, liquid bandages meant for humans contain alcohol, while those meant for dogs are alcohol-free. Alcohol acts as a drying agent and can be very irritating for your pup.
Alternatives to Liquid Bandages
Styptic Powder: This product is applied to a wound to help stop bleeding. Styptic powders help promote the clotting process, which allows a scab to form more quickly.
They’re effective and many even contain ingredients that help numb pain, but they can be a little difficult to apply, particularly if your dog is squirming around.
Cornstarch: Not only can cornstarch act as a safe dry-shampoo for your dog’s fur, but it also acts as a natural styptic, stopping the flow of blood. In addition, it can be very soothing to irritated or even raw areas.
Simply mix a little bit of water with cornstarch to make a paste and apply to the affected area.
