What to do to a dog if they get a rusty nail on their foot?

Answer 1

Since injuries such as stepping on a rusty nail can result in dogs contracting tetanus (lockjaw) just as it does humans. And, while some dogs do have a higher immunity to it than humans do, you still need to take your dog to the veterinarian ASAP.

Death from tetanus can be avoided by early medical treatment, which involves tetanus antitoxins, antibiotics, sedatives, IV fluids, and care of the wound. If you are absolutely unable to take your dog to a vet immediately, call your local emergency animal clinic and talk to the vet on duty. They will often advise you by phone at no charge.

But if there isn't one in your area, you need to clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water, being sure to flush the wound well after cleaning it with a liberal amount of soap. Then apply an antibiotic or anti infective ointment and cover with gauze to prevent the dog from licking off the medicine from its foot. And then call or take you dog to the vet ASAP - your dog's life may depend on it.