Dog licking stitches on nose

[nigelhoath]

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We have a 9 year old Golden Retriever. He had cancer in his upper nose. A specialist removed part of his nose and beyond now having a pug face he has many stiches just above his mouth. He licks where the stitches are and this leads to bleeding. It's been advised we observe him 24/7 but I can't see how that is a solution. I wonder if anyone has experienced this, or something similar. I have thought of a modified muzzle or maybe some type of cream/ointment that tastes horrible and would limit his desire to lick there. But any thoughts very welcome. I should say beyond losing some of his good looks in general he is doing fine, and after a week eating his soft food with enthusiasm. And his walks are getting longer. While here in Spain many advised to put him to sleep so glad that barely crossed our minds. Thanks in anticipation

 

[JoanneF]

I don't have any bright ideas but I'd like to offer my best wishes for his recovery.

 

[nigelhoath]

I don't have any bright ideas but I'd like to offer my best wishes for his recovery.

Thanks Joanne. We'll jump this hurdle somehow and Axel will be charging down the beach and sitting in the waves again.

 

[JudyN]

I love your positive attitude - he's so lucky to have you.

Some random googling threw up nose protectors: Dog Nose Protectors I don't know if stopping air get to the wound would be a problem though.

Will he stop licking it if you tell him to? I'm wondering if you could not stop him completely, but limit the licking if you rewarded each time he stopped, and spent a lot of time distracting him with games, extra walks, etc. I can imagine it would be pretty exhausting though, and you can hardly treat/walk/entertain him 24/7.