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my kids show pig got a laceration today 3 inch long 1 inch deep. we have no veterinary services nearby. what should I do?
Optional Information: Type of Animal: show pig Gender: Male Age: 6-7 months Already Tried: cleaning by hand and water
Hi. I am sorry to hear about your pig.
You are in a tough spot here. This sounds like a wound that needs to be sutured to get the best repair. It would be best to get him in to a vet (or have the vet come to you).
Where is the wound?
on his rump about 4 inches right of his tail
Ok. I would flush the wound out with lots of water if he will let you. Dry it very well. re you going to be able to seek vet care tomorrow or not at all?
tomorrow is a problem, i have a funeral to attend that is 3 hrs away. I think the wound is already showing signs of infection, as the area around it is swollen
did you get my last message?
I am sorry to hear about the funeral. I don't know if you could cover the wound with gauze and then athletic tape (or even good old duct tape in a pinch) until it can be tended to. I am concerned that it will not heal properly without suturing and I am concerned that flies will get to it if you leave it open. You should get some antibiotic too.
what antibiotic do you recommend?
dosage (pig weighs about 175)
Most large animal vets will come out to you and can still tend to the animal if you are not present as long as you leave instructions on what you will allow them to do, where the animal is housed etc. Is this an option? As for antibiotic, you would need to get that from your vet unless you already have it on the farm.
ok thanks!
If you have any antibiotic sprays or ointments, you could certainly put some of this on until you can get antibiotic from your vet and get it properly sutured.
Can I answer any further questions?
should I use some peroxide on the wound?
Change the bandage 1-2 times daily until your dvm gets there to tend to it. You can use some dilute peroxide on it, but flushing with water (LOTS) is probably more effective and less irritating. Side question - can he get at the wound (ie do you think he will chew off the bandage or do you think he will leave it alone)?
No he can't get to it, but the other pigs may
Can you isolate him?
no, we have no way to get water to him and it has been over 100 for 20 straight days.
Wow! You have some hot weather!!
yea, not been fun for man or beast. thanks for your help. I'll try to get the vet to come over (45 miles one way).
Hopefully the other pigs will leave him alone. I hope this has been helpful. I hope you can get someone out soon. And good luck at the shows with Pig.
Any further questions?
nope, thanks for your help!
You bet.
Experience: Over 18 yrs. of small animal medical and surgical experience. Over 8 yrs. of ER and critical care.
Hi Ken,I'm just following up on our conversation about your pet. How is everything going?Dr. Elizabeth Ann