A small study in large‑breed dogs found that injecting a copper‑bound peptide (GHK‑Cu) into fresh pad wounds helped the wounds close faster and produced more of the strong type‑I collagen that makes skin sturdy. The benefit was strongest in the first week after injury, and the peptide‑treated wounds had higher collagen levels than saline‑treated controls.

To ascertain the effects of locally injected immunostimulant and tripeptide-copper complex (TCC) on improving healing of pad wounds. Wounds in pads of large dogs were injected with either medication or physiologic saline solution (controls). Healing was evaluated. 12 mature English Pointers. Full-thickness 6 x 8-mm wounds in metatarsal and third and fourth digital pads were injected with immunostimulant or TCC at 0, 3, and 6 days after wounding. Wounds on control dogs were injected with physiologic saline solution. Using planimetric measurements at 0, 3, 6, 14, and 21 days, rates of healing were evaluated. Biopsy of the digital pad wounds at 3, 6, and 14 days was used to evaluate collagen content by hydroxyproline analysis. Biopsy specimens were also evaluated for type-I and type-III collagen, using Sirius red differential staining. Effect on healing rate and hydroxyproline content was best during the first week for immunostimulant. Immunostimulant- and TCC-injected wounds had more type-I collagen than did controls at 6 days; TCC-injected wounds had the most type-I collagen. At 14 days, the amount of type-I collagen in TCC-injected wounds was significantly greater than that in other wounds. Tested medications had positive effects on healing of pad wounds. Intralesional injection of medications helps ensure their presence for enhancement of wound healing. The benefit could be lost with topical use in a bandage if the bandage is lost or becomes wet.