WOUND CARE
Is the Tail Sleeve Breathable? YES
Does the tail sleeve hold moisture? NO
Is the Tail Sleeve Machine Washable? Yes (we recommend unscented gentle cleansers)
Cleaning the Wound & Topicals
For a 1-step easy plan (non-necrotic wounds) we see good results by:
irrigating wound 2 -3 times per day with Vetericyn Hydrogel spray.... it kills germs, rinses off debris and leaves a protective coating of hydrogel on the wound for 5 hours... all in 1 step. It reduces or stops itching for 4-5 hours and the self-dissolving coat of hydrogel on the wound leads to faster healing times. We test a small area first to assure he/she is not allergic to it (do this with anything you use). Be sure it has the word "hydrogel" in the name. We defer to your veterinarian as they are there with you and your pup.
All Natural Topicals our customers like: Honey & Silver are often mentioned by our customers as working well.
Healing Times
For new wounds, it may take only days or weeks to heal fully.
The time to heal injuries that have been there for months will take longer, from weeks to several months. The tail will be vulnerable to re-injury until the hair grows back and the skin thickens. You may choose to use the TailSaver on an "as needed" basis once the wound is healed . If your pup does re-injure his/her tail you can achieve a speedy recovery by putting it back on immediately.
Bandages:
- No bandages if/when possible Why? They may trigger chewing behavior, and in some cases may slow healing times. *Please check with your veterinarian before making changes to wound care as they are there and can see the situation.
- The tail-sleeve will do many of the same functions as bandages: keeping wound clean, & keeping topicals , keeping teeth "off"
- Bleeding can be reduced or stopped by adjustment of wag-strap. Remember that if it's tight it must come off or be loosened at potty-time.
- Wash tail sleeve often for a clean & germ free environment. Uncented & mild cleansers are best.