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My dog has a bump with a hole and a maggot. When should I see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | unneutered | 7 years and 4 months old | 4.5 lbs

I found a small bump with a hole in it on my dogs belly. I gave it a little squeeze to check for puss and a maggot came out! I removed it gently, cleaned the area, applied a triple antibiotic and put a cone on him. The hole is closing but there is still a little bump. Do I need to take him to the vet?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Laura Johnson VMD

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 6th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Poor Baby! You can continue to clean the area and apply the ointment through the weekend. It will take several days for the bump to go down. If there is no significant decrease in swelling or redness in 3 days he should be seen for oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. Keep him indoors until healed and keep flies off him.

Good luck!
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