My puppy has a sore on her back with clear discharge. Is it serious?

This presentation could be due to a trauma 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 (if any). 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. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

That heavy discharge generally indicates infection. Your pup will heal the fastest if he goes in to see his doctor. The doctor may give him a systemic antibiotic or may only give him topicals if the lesion is very small. Sometimes these pets can be itchy as well and will get medication for that too. You definitely want to make sure that he cannot itch or lick at that area as it will make it worse. The doctor will also shave the hair as it needs to be exposed to the air to dry up. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Hi there! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Thanks for rescuing; it is much needed these days. These lesions in a puppy could be linked to a variety of skin conditions such as flea allergy, mites and mange, among others. Even though food allergy is possible, it seems less likely at this time. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian to check for these conditions to try to direct therapy at the specific cause. From the picture and your description, these lesions are likely also secondarily infected by bacteria. Most of these conditions are treatable so you will see an improvement in Sally's condition fairly quickly when treated appropriately. Good luck!

Thank you for showing concern and compassion for this little guy. The wound appears to be most likely caused by chronic fleas, bacterial infection (hot spot), or mite infestation. It could have also been caused by an injury or burn - a little difficult to tell with just a photo. Your vet should be able to help you figure it out. In the meantime, try to keep him from scratching the area and keep it as clean as possible.

Oh dear, poor Winter! The pimple-like bumps on her skin look most suspicious for a bacterial skin infection (pyoderma), which can develop as a result of excessive licking or scratching since this damages the skin. The licking and scratching can result from underlying allergies to fleas, food, or environmental factors, in addition to mange, ringworm, or even vaginitis or a urinary tract infection in this case since Winter has some yellow vulvar discharge. Discomfort from itchiness can lead to a decreased appetite, and underlying allergies can also cause bloodshot eyes. At this point, your best bet is to take Winter to her vet for evaluation since she may need to have a urinalysis to determine if a urinary tract infection is present, as well as antibiotics and anti-itch medications or medicated shampoos to help manage her skin issues. Also be sure that she is receiving a high quality flea and tick preventative, such as Nexgard or K9 Advantix II (she is both old enough and large enough for either of these medications) in case fleas are part of the problem. I hope this helps and that Winter feels better soon!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor baby! It could be a burn from heating pad or lamp. Or it could be a hot spot from excessive moisture from the mother licking the puppy or lying in urine. Hot spots can crop up quite quickly. Since the puppy is so young it should ideally be seen by a Vet. the fur should be shaved to evaluate the area. If it is a hot spots can heal very quickly. I hope this helps and I wish you all the very best!

Puppies!!! This sore could be several things - urine scald and another puppy suckling this spot are likely. Watch the puppies closely to see if another pup is suckling or if mom is excessively licking this spot. Right now, you can use some topical triple antibiotic ointment (a small amount) a couple times a day. If it gets any bigger or deeper, seek veterinary care. Thank you for using pet coach.