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My older dog has an open wound on her tail. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | unspayed | 13 years and 7 months old | 7 lbs

I have a small but olser dog that has a open wound at the base of her tail. Its seems to bother her all day. I think she got bit by something outside. There has been a cat outside resently. She been acting strange. Sleeping in strange places, like shes hiding and not wanting to stay outside longer than it take to use the potty. Used to have to froce her to come in. What can i do to help heal the small wound? Thanks

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 16th, 2017

Poor Cookie! I would have her seen by a vet for this wound. It sounds like from her behavior that it could be painful, and there's nothing you can give her at home for the pain. Many human pain medications are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. If she was bitten by that cat, the wound could easily become infected and she needs antibiotic to prevent infection from occurring. The vet can prescribe these as well. Take Cookie into a vet as soon as possible to have this wound treated so it can heal. In the meantime, you can clean the area with warm water and antiseptic soap.

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