Use of organic honey for the topic treatment of a third-degree skin burn in a dog - Case Report

Abstract

The use of honey provides considerable benefit in wound care as a stimulus for tissue growth, increased epithelialization, and reduced scar formation. These effects are due to its acidity, the presence of hydrogen peroxide, osmotic effect, and antioxidant content. A four-year-old canine Labrador showed an extensive wound around the left thoracoabdominal area as the result of a third-degree burn due to the use of an electrical thermal mattress. After debridement of the necrotic tissue and ten days of antibiotic therapy, the use of a topical dressing with organic honey was begun, twice a day, with pure honey applied with surgical gauze and protected with a dressing. The injury progressed with good healing, with epithelialization and formation of granulation tissue after 15 days of treatment, and no need for surgical skin reconstruction. Thus, honey is a low-cost and easy-to-use option for the animal’s owner, after debridement and antibiotic therapy established by the veterinarian.