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What's wrong with my stray puppy's healing sore and hair loss?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 4 lbs

This stray puppy wandered into my yard. I didn't have enough money to get him to the vet. I live in a rural area so there were no places around where I live that could take him to get him help. He had a sore but it's almost healed up now but he lost a lot of hair. What could this be? I will be able to get him to the vet in just one week but just wondering what this could be

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Rachel

Veterinarian

Published on June 23rd, 2017

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.

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    Answered By Rebecca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor little guy. Be sure to keep it clean. It may have been a wound from an animal bite, or hit by car or even chemical burn. As long as it is healing well that's great. Still get to vet when you can as he likely needs pastor treatment and vaccinations. Any signs of discharge, infection or swelling and try to get him to the vet sooner if possible. In the meantime just clean with warm water. No peroxide or alcohol as that can irritate tissue and slow healing. Thanks for taking care of this guy!

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