Since anaerobic bacteria are a normal part of your dog’s mouth, it is possible to transmit bacteria through a bite wound. Superficial wounds may resolve with typical antimicrobial therapies but deep puncture wounds can be very stubborn. For this reason, culture and sensitivity testing are being more frequently recommended for dogs who go to their vet’s office due to bite wounds.
Since the mouth is a hotbed for these types of bacteria, routine dental cleanings are highly recommended. Deep cleanings around the teeth and below the gums are important because they can remove much of this bacteria and promote the healing of periodontal disease and periodontitis if present. And because this kind of bacteria can be harmful elsewhere in the body, general anesthesia is always recommended for a dental. Otherwise, the bacteria that is aerosolized during the cleaning can be inhaled or swallowed, potentially causing infection elsewhere in the body. And without dental cleanings, harmful bacteria can get into the bloodstream through the gums and make their way to the heart.
All surgeries should be performed using an aseptic or sterile technique to ensure that bacteria do not enter the surgery site. This is also the reason why dogs should wear Elizabethan collars after surgery. Incision sites can be itchy when they heal, and when dogs lick these incisions, they can introduce bacteria into the incision site and cause infection or non-healing of the site. This is especially important with orthopedic surgeries because if infection occurs with implants or devices, additional surgery will be necessary to remove the infected implants!
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