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Dog has red mark after hiking. Is it a tick or sting? What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | neutered | 4 years and 9 months old | 17 lbs

My dog has a dark red circle with what looks like a sting mark in the middle-we just went hiking in the mountains, so I think it may be a tick, but I'm not sure if we should go to the vet?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on September 16th, 2017

This doesn't look like a tick bite, more likely a wasp or bee sting that Milo may have scratched. Please clean it with antibacterial soap, rinse it well, dry the area then apply a thin film of antibacterial ointment on it. You can also put a little bit of cortisone cream on it to prevent itching. Please use a restraint collar is needed to prevent Milo from licking it. If it gets bigger, painful or Milo becomes lethargic and not eating then I would recommend a veterinary visit. I do expect with your home care that this will heal fine. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Milo.

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