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My dog's wound closed up. How can I safely reopen it to drain fluid?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 82 lbs

I took my dog to the vet for a lump filled with fluid on my dog's left side. The vet recommended that I keep the wound (inserted by vet) open to keep squeezing fluid out but the hole he punctured closed up. How can I reopen it safely?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 16th, 2017

If it still feels like there is fluid under the skin you can try applying a warm compress over the wound for 10 minutes. You can repeat this every few hours, and it may allow the would to reopen. If there was no more fluid or drainage at the time it closed, he may no longer need the opening. If he does, your vet may need to insert what we call a "drain" into the wound.

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    Answered By Anna M., DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Keep the area clean using mild soapy water and you can gently scrub with a clean wash cloth. Dawn dish soap works well. You can soften & wipe away crusty discharge or a small scab this way. Once the body is ready to close up the draining hole, you won't be able to keep it open - the main this to keep it clean and draining as long as you can before it closes up again. Hope this helps!

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