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My dog has a scab that lifted to reveal a hole. What's the skin issue?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 1 year and 2 months old | 22 lbs

I noticed a scab while petting my dog but it lifted up to reveal a hole, what could this be? Our vet is closed but I will phone first thing tomorrow

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 21st, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry to hear Luna is having skin issues. A focal area like you are seeing can be due to a variety of causes, including an infection, a wound, a ruptured cyst or wart, a parasite or another underlying issue. If there is no heat, swelling or discharge I would monitor it this evening to ensure that she isn’t licking/chewing the area and then touch base with her regular veterinarian in the morning. It may require stitches, antibiotics or an anti-inflammatory to heal, all of which can most likely be addressed before the holiday. If she starts chewing at the area, I would either put an Elizabethan collar on her to prevent her from reaching it or having it addressed this evening. Good luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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