Despite our precautions, sometimes accidents happen and our companions are subjected to burns and scalds. There are many causes of this: spilling some hot coffee when kitty is at our feet waiting for breakfast, an animal jumping up onto a hot stove, a dog walking across a hot parking lot on a summer day, too much sun, getting too close to the campfire, being exposed to a caustic chemical, etc.

We need to recognize when the burns are treatable at home and when we will need professional help. There are three general classes of external burns. First-degree burns are the least severe and produce redness of the area exposed. Second-degree burns produce a blister. If not too large, these are easily treated at home. If the size of the area where it is blistered is larger than the palm of your hand on an average sized cat or dog, you must take them to the veterinarian for treatment. Otherwise, with close supervision, they can be handled at home. Third-degree burns can be identified by the flesh being charred. These types of burns are very serious and should only be attended to by a professional.

When an animal's skin is burned it becomes very susceptible to infection and we must be vigilant in keeping the infection out. Also, when burned, there is a chance that our friend will become dehydrated. Either situation can be very serious and is cause to bring them to a veterinarian. Should you see any signs of infection or dehydration, it's time to get help. Shock may occur in some animals and care should be taken that they are kept calm and warm. If the shock does not subside quickly, again, take your friend to a professional.

Any chemical burns should also be treated professionally. If a liquid chemical is the cause, rinse with warm water; if a powder is the culprit brush off the excess and go to the vet. Take the container of the burn causing substance if at all possible so that they can better know how to deal with the burn.

If your furfriend has become burned, gently look under the fur and assess the damage. If there are first and second-degree burns, immerse the affected parts in cold water for several minutes. Don't put ice on the burns as it might do further damage. Cooling the skin in the water will help keep the swelling and blistering down if done soon enough. If there are third-degree burns or if second-degree burns cover a large part of the animal's body, cover them loosely with a blanket and get them to a veterinarian. Do not remove burned skin or burst any blisters that develop. Closed blisters can be covered with a dry bandage, but if they open, the area should be left open to air to heal.

Of the homeopathic remedies that should be considered, starting with Aconitum napellus is always a good choice to help calm the scared animal and relieve some of the pain. Rescue Remedy is also helpful. Either can be given repeatedly up to four times until the animal is resting calmly. Apis mellifica may be the second remedy given if the skin is puffy but no blisters have developed. For second degree burns with blisters, Cantharis would be a better choice. An electrical burn would indicate the use of Phosphorous.

Herbally, there are several things that can be used externally on minor burns. Aloe vera is very soothing to burned skin and the juice from a crushed leaf can be applied as often as needed. It will relieve a lot of pain if applied repeatedly. Honey used as a poultice will also relieve pain and speed healing. Infusions of calendula, stinging nettles or comfrey are also useful in cleaning the area and in relieving pain and reducing the time for healing to occur. Vitamin E oil applied to the wound can prevent scarring.

Flower essences also have their place in treating burn victims. To keep your animal friend calm, Rescue Remedy can be used throughout the healing period. Agrimony can be given to perk up an animal that is in poor spirits due to needing a long healing time.

Essential oils can also be employed to heal burns faster and better with less scar tissue. A mixture of 1 part rosemary, 1 part rose geranium, 3 parts lavender, 6 parts wheat germ oil and 12 parts St. John's Wort oil can be used externally on the burn. It must only be used after some healing has taken place and there is no open, moist tissue present.