My dog has a wound that won't heal. Should I shave or use peroxide?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

  Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

  Published on October 6th, 2017

  If the wound appears to be healing, then you may not need to worry about it. However, without examining Marley, I can't tell you for sure if it is healing. You can take 3 pictures and attach them to a new Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach question and we may be able to help you more.
  
  For future reference, I routinely recommend the following steps to help a wound heal if you decide not to have it evaluated by a veterinarian:
  1. Clip the hair away from the wound using buzzing-type clippers, not scissors or a razor. This is so you can monitor the wound and keep the hair out of the way to help with healing.
  2. Disinfect the wound once with peroxide or a first aid chlorhexidine wound soap. Do not continue to use peroxide, or alcohol, as this will delay healing.
  3. Apply an antibacterial ointment, such as Neosporin, twice daily. If needed to clean the wound, use a warm wet wash cloth to gently wipe away and dried fluid.
  4. Prevent all licking or scratching of the wound by using an e-collar or dog booties or socks.
  5. See a vet if your pet experiences prolonged lethargy, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rectal temperature over 102.5, or if there is creamy discharge or discharge with a foul odor, or there is swelling around the wound.

  

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• Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

  Veterinarian

  Published on June 19th, 2017

  Ouch! This looks like a fight wound or a wound from some other type of trauma. If he will let you I would try to clean with some mild soap and water. He is likely going To need some professional attention by a veterinarian. Your vet will be able to help shave the area, ensure none of the areas need stitches and prescribe some antibiotics and pain meds. I hope this helps.

  

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• Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

  Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

  Published on July 2nd, 2018

  The wound may heal on its own, but since it is surrounded by hair, I would worry about it getting infected. And since we don't know what caused it, there is likely bacteria in the wound already. I would recommend having your veterinarian examine the wound and clean it. That will allow them to determine if it is likely to heal on its own or to determine if it need any additional treatment other than cleaning and possible antibiotics.
  Good luck! I hope that was helpful and answered your question. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

  

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