Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

White, bloody, barbed things coming from my rescued dog's skin?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 11 years and 4 months old | 154 lbs

Max was getting groomed ( we rescued him today) for the first time in 2 years and we found somthing coming out of his skin, it is white and bloody and flatt and has like little barbs all over it, we found 3 on him. He has an appointment at the vet tomorrow. But does anyone have any idea what this may be? The people said he basically lived in a pond/ swamp near their house.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 16th, 2018

It is difficult to tell from the picture but I would suspect that this is some sort of parasite or larva of a parasite that has infected the skin. If you are able to remove them I would do that, then clean the area. If you do remove them, take one with you to the vet so it can be examined. Max may need some antibiotics if these parasites left lesions behind.

Best of luck. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button