Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My senior poodle has a neck cut. What to watch for & can I give pain relief?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Toy Poodle | Male | neutered | 14 years and 10 months old | 2 lbs

My toy poodle has a cut on his jaw/neck. It is not bleeding but I have wrapped it with gauze and ointment. What should I watch for and can I give him anything for pain? It does not seem to bother him at all but he is 15 years old

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on November 25th, 2016

This may be a ruptured abscess or growth and if he has any fever, loss of appetite or discomfort, or if the area continues to get bigger you should get him assessed by your vet for treatment. Otherwise keep the area clean and dry as you are and monitor for healing over 5-7days

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    You can monitor the area for redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. He may need an oral antibiotic to prevent infection so you could have your vet look at the cut to determine if treatment is needed. There really isn't a good over the counter pain medication that I recommend giving him. If he needs pain medications, your vet can prescribe a medication safe for dogs. Hope the cut heals quickly.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Poor Buddy! I'm glad to hear that the cut isn't bleeding. Unfortunately, there are no human over-the-counter pain medications that would be safe to give him, so he would need a vet visit if you think that he seems painful. If he's acting normal and you opt not to go to the vet, you will need to keep the cut clean and dry while it heals. You can use a topical antibiotic spray labeled for use in dogs to help prevent infection. If the skin around the wound becomes swollen and red, or if there is any yellow or green drainage from the area, this are signs of infection - in that case, Buddy would need to see a vet since he will need oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication to treat the infection.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
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
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
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