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My dog has shock collar wounds. How do I treat them at home?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog has open wounds on his neck from a shock collar being on for too long. I have washed him, but what else can I do to treat his wounds?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on February 13th, 2015

If the wound is superficial (just on the skin), I suggest washing the area well with a diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution. Apply a warm washcloth 2-3 times a day for 5-10 minutes at a time to soothe the area and promote drainage. After washing and the compress, dry it well and apply a small amount of an [antimicrobial preparation](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetericyn-plus-antimicrobial-wound-and-skin-hydrogel-for-pets) to the wound. Confirm the product does NOT contain hydrocortisone. Steroids may slow healing. If the wound does not show signs of healing within a few days, have him seen by your veterinarian right away. Antibiotics and pain medication may be indicated. Other symptoms to monitor for include [fever](https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-common-causes-of-fever-in-pets), loss of appetite, [vomiting](https://www.petcoach.co/article/vomiting-in-dogs), diarrhea, redness, swelling or discharge.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 15th, 2017

    Clean the area with antibacterial soap and rinse it well. Trim the surrounding hair so you can keep an eye on the wound and so it is open to the air which will allow it to heal more quickly. When it's dry you can apply a thin film of antibacterial ointment on it. Please don't use any type of collar on Koda until this is healed. You can use a body harness for walking. The wound should look better everyday. If it's not drying up and healing Kona may need antibiotics from your veterinarian. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Kona.

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