My dog's stitches aren't holding. Will staples close the incision?

The most likely reason for the dehiscence of the incision is infection. The infection may be due to a resistant type of bacteria (like MRSA). I suggest you have the wound cultured so they can find out what bacteria is growing there.

it is hard to say if this can heal without putting another stitch in. If you cannot keep your dog still, then this will indeed need another stitch or staple to hold the wound edges together and especially not enlarge. It is also very important to keep an e-collar on her so she cannot lick the incision. Keeping her calm would be essential and you may have to crate her in order to achieve that.

That could be quite a common situation, especially with certain kind of tumors (mast cell tumors). Depending on what the wound looks like(a picture would help to define it more specifically), a revision surgery may be needed. Tissue glue or metal staples could be valid options as well. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The area will still continue to heal without the staple. Monitor daily for redness, swelling, discharge, or heat. If you notice that, return to the vet for further evaluation. Kisses to Lucky!

It looks like the wound is separating a bit, and perhaps one of the staples has pulled through the skin, but it is difficult to tell from a photo. There appears to be a little bit of redness/discharge which can sometimes indicate infection. I don't think this is an emergency but I would recommend having your vet examine the incision when they are next open. If your dog is licking at the area then placing an e-collar on him to stop this, or if you do not have one trying to put a long sleeved shirt on him so that he cannot lick at the area and further cause damage until your vet can see him. Best of luck to you!

You can keep staples in for as long as needed, as long as they are not causing any irritation / other problems. I would agree with the vet and keep those in a little while longer. I would not place another staple in that area though. The incision appears to be intact still based on the picture. However, if the picture does not show how open it is, then I would have the vet take a look at this and make that decision on whether or not another staple should be placed.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Using dissolvable or non-dissolvable sutures would not cause an incision to open. Other factors like movement and infection would. It sounds like Kane had a surgical complication that can happen with any surgery. I’m sorry he’s going through this but continue the treatment the doctor recommended and it should heal with time. Kisses to Kane!