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My dog's nose is bleeding after a stick injury. Is it an emergency?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 9 months old | 70 lbs

My GSD ran onto a stick in the park 2 days ago. We saw a laceration in the back of her throat, but she was acting normal. By morning she was not doing well, lethargic and could hardly walk. Vet found a pocket under her front left leg. Sent us home with antibiotics, anti inflammatory & painkillers & the pocket was gone by this morning. She was acting fine, eating drinking and going to the bathroom but now just starting light bleeding from her nose. Should I be worried or can it wait till morning

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on June 1st, 2017

I would be concerned if she develops difficulty breathing which could happen if the bleeding gets worse and she develops swelling of the airway, Based on the history and appearance of the pharynx, I would be worried that Luca may have a piece of the stick lodged behind the tissues. You need to discuss x-rays and or CT or surgery to explore the area. In summary, the safest thing to do is monitor for respiratory difficulty and take her to if the nearest veterinary emergency hospital if that happens. Otherwise, follow up with your veterinarian first thing tomorrow.
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