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My dog's paw is swollen, bleeding, and limping. Cone or vet visit?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cairn Terrier | Male | unneutered | 13 lbs

My dog looks like it received a bad bug bite on his foot between his toes on top of his paw. It swelled into a large red bump. I soaked it with Epsom put aloe on it and wrapped it. He keeps taking off the bandage and licking it. The selling went down a little bit now it’s open and bleeding. He is limping more than before. Do I need to get a cone? Or is it more serious?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Strydom, DVM

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 23rd, 2019

Yes, I would get a cone. Be sure that the cone extends past the end of his nose or he will still be able to lick. This could be a serious problem. Bumps between the toes can be anything from a cyst, to a tumor to an abscess. You can keep soaking it with Epsom salts. You can apply the aloe but it's not likely to help; Neosporin would be better. I suggest you don't wrap it. If you bandage it too tight or incorrectly then you can cause more damage. If after 4-5 days he is not better you need to get him to the vet for an exam.
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