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My dog has lick granuloma. How to clean and heal without bandages?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 1 year and 11 months old | 70 lbs

I think my dog has lick granuloma we have been trying to keep it clean bandage his wound but he just keeps getting the bandage off. We are very worried about infection possibly happening what can i use to keep it clean?? Please help

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on September 16th, 2017

I've found cleaning this with antibacterial soap, rinsing well, drying the area and then applying an antibacterial ointment on it will protect it from infection. I prefer to use a restraint collar so Diesel can't lick it, rather than using a bandage. Leaving the area open to the air promotes faster healing. These can be difficult to heal so preventing the licking is very important. Some veterinarians give antibiotics and anti inflammatory medication as well as treating the area with a cold laser which speeds the healing. Keeping Diesel busy with exercise and playtime will help also as this is often made worse by boredom and stress. Be patient these can take weeks to months to fully resolve. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Diesel.

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 6th, 2020

    Lick granuloma's should be allowed to have oxygen, because tissues need oxygen to heal. If this is the only way to keep her from licking it, then another course of treatment should be sought. I would recommend consulting with your vet who can get her on a longer more effective treatment for this, such as medication specifically designed for treating lick granulomas. Also any secondary infections need to be treated with oral antibiotics, as most of the problem with these lies just underneath the skin where topical medictaion cannot reach. I would also consider soaking the paw in a Betadine solution diulted 50:50 with water. This can really help cut down on the bacterial load. Then do a sterile saline flush of the area for several minutes after. Here is more information on lick granulomas and the various treatments available to pets --> https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951978 Best of luck with your pet Angel and finally resolving this lick granuloma. Take care.

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Lick granuloma's should be allowed to have oxygen, because tissues need oxygen to heal. If this is the only way to keep her from licking it, then another course of treatment should be sought. I would recommend consulting with your vet who can get her on a longer more effective treatment for this, such as medication specifically designed for treating lick granulomas. Also any secondary infections need to be treated with oral antibiotics, as most of the problem with these lies just underneath the skin where topical medictaion cannot reach. I would also consider soaking the paw in a Betadine solution diulted 50:50 with water. This can really help cut down on the bacterial load. Then do a sterile saline flush of the area for several minutes after. Here is more information on lick granulomas and the various treatments available to pets --> https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951978 Best of luck with your pet Angel and finally resolving this lick granuloma.
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