it depends on the severity of the burn, like u said, the vet it EXTREMELY important cause he might need antibiotics or he can get an infection, which would most likely kill him.... if the burn in more than i would say 60% of his body take him in, and if there is nothing the vet can do have him humanely uthanized, instead of slowly watching him die in a painful way.... try to get pictures up to see the damage, and i wish you all the best, and yes about what you said with the paper towels antibiotic etc..