Dog Stitches, Staples & Steri Strips: Owner’s Care Guide

If your dog suffers an injury too deep, large, or ragged to heal naturally, your vet will choose the best wound closure method to aid healing and prevent infection. Whether your dog has undergone surgery, like spaying, or suffered from cuts, tears, or bite wounds, proper treatment ensures better recovery.

When pet owners hear "dog stitches," they often picture traditional needle and thread sutures. However, wound closure techniques vary, each offering unique benefits and uses. This guide explains the most common types your vet may use, how they work, and what you should know to care for your dog’s wound properly.

Types of Dog Stitches and Wound Closures

Absorbable Stitches

Absorbable stitches are crafted from materials that your dog's body naturally breaks down and absorbs over time. They are most commonly used internally to close layers like muscle, organs, or subcutaneous tissue. Their key advantage is that they don't require removal, which reduces stress for your dog and avoids the risk of them picking at the stitches.

While generally well tolerated, a small number of dogs may have an immune reaction causing inflammation or rejection of the stitches. Your vet will monitor your dog’s healing progress during follow-ups.

Non-Absorbable Stitches

Non-absorbable stitches are traditional strong sutures made from durable synthetic materials, such as nylon. They are used for closing skin wounds and require vet removal approximately 1–2 weeks after placement. These stitches tend to leave a smaller scar as the body does not need to react to break them down.

Surgical Staples

Surgical staples, typically stainless steel, offer a quick and precise alternative to stitching. Using a special staple gun, the vet closes the wound edges efficiently. Staples are used for skin wounds and must be removed by the vet after around one to two weeks. The speed and accuracy of stapling can reduce anaesthesia time during surgery, benefiting your dog's overall recovery.

Surgical Adhesives (Skin Glue)

Surgical adhesives are medical-grade glues applied to close small, superficial wounds. Skin glue is less invasive than stitches or staples and naturally degrades over time. However, they are not suitable for deep or heavily stressed wounds due to lower strength. If used, your vet will advise on how to care for the glued area as it heals.

Butterfly Stitches (Steri-Strips)

Butterfly stitches, or steri-strips, are not true stitches but adhesive strips that pull the edges of a small wound together. They help minor cuts that might otherwise heal independently by providing extra support. Steri-strips naturally lose their stickiness after a few days, falling off or easily removable once healing has progressed. They are a simple and gentle method suitable for minor injuries.

How to Care for Your Dog’s Wound Closure

1. Limit Movement: Prevent your dog from excessive activity that might stress or tear the wound. Shorten walks and restrict access to stairs or rough surfaces. Using a crate or quiet room can be helpful.
2. Prevent Licking and Scratching: Protect the site from your dog’s licking or biting, which can cause infections or wound reopening. An Elizabethan collar (“cone”) is often needed.
3. Keep the Area Clean and Dry: Follow your vet's advice on cleaning. Usually, cautiously clean the area 1-2 times daily with prescribed products, avoiding baths or wetting the site until fully healed.
4. Monitor for Infection: Check the wound at least twice daily for signs such as redness, swelling, discharge, foul odour, or discomfort. If you observe any concerns, contact your vet promptly.
5. Follow Up Vets Visits: Non-absorbable stitches and staples require removal by your vet, usually after 7–14 days. Absorbable stitches don't need removal but may be monitored.

Can You Use Steri-Strips on Dogs?

Quick Answer: Steri-strips can be used on dogs for small, clean, and superficial wounds to help close them, but they should never replace veterinary care for deeper or more serious injuries.

These adhesive strips are handy for minor cuts that need a little extra help to stay closed. However, if the wound is large, deep, or contaminated, professional vet treatment with stitches, staples, or other closures is necessary. Always ensure wounds are thoroughly cleaned before applying steri-strips, and follow your vet’s guidance for the safest approach.

Common Questions About Dog Stitches and Steri Strips

What should I do if my dog’s stitches get wet?

Keeping the stitched area dry is crucial to avoid infection and delay healing. If the wound gets wet accidentally, gently pat it dry and contact your vet for advice. Avoid bathing your dog until the wound is fully healed and stitches are removed or absorbed.

How long does it take for stitches or steri strips to heal?

Healing times vary depending on the wound size and method. Generally, skin wounds with non-absorbable stitches or staples require removal after 7 to 14 days. Absorbable stitches are absorbed typically within a few weeks. Steri-strips usually lose adhesion within a few days as natural healing progresses.

Do stitches hurt my dog?

Vets use anaesthetics during stitching to prevent pain during the procedure. Afterward, some discomfort or mild soreness is normal but should be managed with pain relief as advised. Most dogs tolerate their stitches well with proper care and minimal fuss.

Are there signs of infection I should watch for?

Signs to watch include increased redness, swelling, warmth, discharge (pus or blood), discharge with bad smell, or changes in your dog’s behaviour such as lethargy or loss of appetite. Contact your vet immediately if these occur.

Responsible Care and Ethical Considerations

Remember that proper veterinary care and following your vet’s instructions are essential to ensure your dog’s healthy recovery. If you are acquiring a new dog, consider reputable breeders who prioritize health and welfare, or adoption centres that provide well-cared-for animals in need of homes. Responsible ownership means being prepared to care for health issues promptly and compassionately.

Your dog’s welfare and comfort during recovery truly matter, and attentive, patient care helps them heal safely and happily.

For those looking to find a cocker spaniel puppies or other breeds, always choose reputable breeders or trusted adoption sources to ensure healthy pets with good temperaments.