The key to avoiding bandage complications is to give owners home care instructions. These are some bandage care instructions that we use at Veterinary Specialist Services and you are welcome to copy and paste them into your own notes:
"X has a bandage. It is important that this is kept clean and dry. Placement of a plastic bag over the outer layer during walks can help with this. Remove the plastic bag when indoors as the bandage is designed to allow evaporation. If there is concern about the bandage becoming soiled, an incontinence pad (available from pharmacies), can be lightly wrapped around the outer layers temporarily. Exercise should be restricted to avoid limb movement within the bandage which can cause sores. The bandage should not be uncomfortable and we would like you to alert the hospital if any of the following occur; - Continual attention to the bandage, chewing of the bandage, lameness or any sign your pet may be upset by the bandage. - If the outer layer of the bandage is removed (either by the pet, or when checking the toes), the toes appear swollen – swelling of the toes can be visible by a deviation of the toes. - There is any change in odour of the bandage. - If the bandage becomes wet or soiled. Most bandages that have resulted in serious complications, were left on too long after a period where the pet was bothered by the bandage. Therefore, the most important thing is to monitor the bandage and patient. " Also, this is a link to a video explaining how to care for a bandage at home. Please feel free to share.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lhp96fthmIc
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