Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog won't stop licking her wound. What can I do if she hates cones?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Female | spayed | 5 years and 4 months old | 46 lbs

My staffy had what we think was a bite a week ago and has been licking it excessively. The bite is now much larger, raised and very sore. She keeps making it bleed. We've tried to cover it and stop her licking but nothing works. We do have a cone but she's absolutely scared to death of it. We've just got some anti histamine tablets but will have to wait to see if it works. Also we have some steroid tablets left from her skin problems before. Would it be safe to use them? What else can we do??

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Menolly Cote, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on June 27th, 2017

I'm sorry to hear of your problems with Nessa. She sounds quite uncomfortable. If you do not notice any improvement with the antihistamines, I would recommend that you have her seen by your veterinarian. It is not safe to give her steroids without having her examined by a veterinarian. It is possible that she has an infection and steroids could worsen the problem. If possible, try covering the affected area with a t-shirt to prevent her from licking at it.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    While this could be an insect bite, we could also have other causes for this lesion, including a foreign body (like a grass awn), an infection from a wound or bite, ringworm (some dogs get a raised inflammatory lesion like this), or a growth/tumor such as a histiocytoma or mast cell tumor. For this reason it is best to have your vet check the area out since it doesn't seem to be healing on its own. I wouldn't give steroids because for some of these conditions it may not be appropriate. I would put an e-collar on your dog if she is licking at the area until you are able to get her into the veterinarian.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?
Can you use contact lens saline for your mouse's eye drops? A certified vet discusses ingredients like boric acid and potassium chloride. Find safe solutions for your pet!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My robo hamster is limp, bleeding, and collapsed. Is it wet tail?
Is your robo hamster dragging, collapsed, or showing blood? A Licensed Vet Tech offers urgent advice on these symptoms, including potential wet tail concerns.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored