lick one's wounds. Recover; comfort oneself after a defeat or a painful encounter.

Of course numerous creatures lick their wounds, including humans, so it could be argued that this is not really a dog reference. Nonetheless, the persistent belief—especially among dog owners—that dog saliva contains special healing properties, suggests that there is a connection. As it turns out, there are antibacterial agents in almost all saliva, including both canine and human. As it also turns out, both orifices contain bacteria that can cause infection, especially for those with compromised immune systems. Still, as Nigel Benjamin, the lead author for the Lancet article, “Wound Licking and Nitric Oxide,” points out, it's instinctive. Benjamin and his colleagues are more ready than most to attribute healing properties to saliva of all kinds. “There is evidence to suggest that if you prevent animals from licking their wounds; they don't heal nearly so quickly as if you allow them to lick them.”