Administration of Creams, Ointments, and Lotions ~ Pawprints and Purrs, Inc.

Pawprints and Purrs, Inc.
Cat Health Care
Information by Condition or Disease

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Any health care links located here are NOT to replace a veterinarian visit; please take your dog to a vet immediately at any sign of odd behavior or any symptoms of illness or injury. Call your vet and describe your dog's symptoms with any of your concerns about the dog's well-being. Your veterinarian may discover changes in your dog's health that you have overlooked. It is always better to err on the side of caution.

Administration of Creams, Ointments, and Lotions

Having obtained some cream, lotion or ointment to apply, there is then the problem of administration. Even the most normally biddable dog can object violently to applications on a sensitive area. It is hoped the following tips may be of help.

What is the difference between creams, ointments and lotions?

Creams are non-greasy. Ointments on the other hand have an oily base. Lotions are liquid preparations but are to all intents and purposes similar to creams and ointments as far as application is concerned.

Follow any directions given regarding application of the product, e.g. using gloves etc. This is quite important.

Lotions are often applied on a piece of cotton wool or lint although today many preparations are available in a spray form.

My dog is perfectly all right until I try to put the preparation on and then he becomes very agitated.

This may be discomfort or actual pain. It is always a good idea to get someone to hold the dog if at all possible; otherwise, the application of a simple muzzle would be a good idea. Your veterinarian will advise information and instructions regarding muzzles.

I can apply the preparation but the dog licks it off as soon as it is applied.

A good tip in this case is to apply the product just before the dog is fed or alternatively just before taking it for a walk. There are some dogs that are inveterate lickers and these ruses are doomed to failure. However, it does help with most topical preparations if they are gently massaged in for a few moments after application. If none of these help, please contact your veterinarian to supply you with an Elizabethan collar. These are large plastic hoods which prevent the dog from licking at the affected area.

I have tried an Elizabethan collar but my dog goes crazy.

The majority of dogs are distressed by the collar initially because of its unfamiliarity. Applying it and then rewarding the dog with a tidbit, or alternatively taking him for a walk is quite a good idea. Approximately 80% of dogs will tolerate a collar with few problems. Wearing the collar in the house, particularly if a large size, can create hazards both for furniture and for people. If your dog is a large breed, it's best to keep your dog crated while wearing a collar.

Page URL: http://www.sniksnak.com/doghealth/creams.html

Resource References:
Much, much appreciation to Dr. Raymond Van Lienden, DVM of Clifton, VA USA for his extensive research in locating the material found on this page. Thank you, dear Doctor!