My beagle puppy has a swollen, red paw. What could be the cause?

Poor Georgia! There are a number of things that could cause a red, swollen area like this on her paw. This could be a localized infection or inflammatory reaction of some kind, such as from an insect bite or sting. It could also be a skin growth or tumor, either benign or malignant (cancerous). I would recommend having this checked by a vet within the next few days, if you are able to. He/she can do a simple test called a fine needle aspirate to help determine what this lump is. Based on the results, the vet can advise you on whether Georgia needs to be treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication, or whether the lump needs to be surgically removed.

The paws are extremely swollen, it could be an infection or due to repetitive trauma, it could also be an allergic reaction or an insect bite. my recommendation would be to take her to your vet ASAP for treatment.

These types of reactions are not usually associated with seasonal allergies. I would expect that she perhaps had an insect sting or a spider bite. If the swelling returns she should be seen by a veterinarian. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

A swollen area could indicate an abscess, a grass seed trapped under the skin or a skin cancer. Your pet needs to be examined by the veterinarian for appropriate treatment, he needs to wear an elizabethan collar at all times to prevent further licking and you need to stop all walks, running and jumping. I hope this helps.

The pictures are kind of blurry but I can tell there is some redness. The swelling is difficult to appreciate. It does seem like an allergic reaction to something, but what.....I cannot say. Since she is acting otherwise normally you can try to give her some over the counter antihistamine medication - you can use diphenhydramine (Benadryl). I would give her 1/2 of a 25mg caplet by mouth every 12 hours. If this has not resolved by Monday then she should see your vet. https://www.benadryl.ca/products/benadryl-caplets

This presentation could be due to a trauma (possibly presence of a small foreign body) or localized spot of skin infection (likely to be caused by bacteria). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem. Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking. . Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Ouch, poor Meeko! It's good that you have an appointment for him. Allergies or infection such as yeast/bacteria can definitely cause redness and swelling like that. If he's limping from pain, keeping him on kennel/bed rest with leashed walks only can help reduce pressure and irritation. I'd also keep the feet as clean and dry as possible and use an Elizabethan (cone) collar to keep him from licking as continued licking can worsen irritation and any infection present.