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My dog has a seeping, crusted wound on her face. How to treat it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 5 years old | 42 lbs

I found what I though was a dirt spot kn my dogs face yesterday while giving her a bath. It turned out to be a skin wound that was seeping and had crusted her fur. It is red and just looks like a layer of skin was rubbed off but yet there is still fur there. It has since seeped again and crusted over. It has no smell and does not seem to hurt her. Should I try to keep the fur clean or let the area heal on its own?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 23rd, 2017

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! A small skin abrasion or hot spot like you are describing may require topical antibiotics to heal. If it does not resolve or worsens, I would recommend she be evaluated by her regular veterinarian. In the meantime, I would keep it clean and if you have grooming clippers try to carefully shave the fur in that area to allow it to heal (do not use scissors!). Good luck!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Claire! I would the area heal on it's own if it's crusted over. It sounds like a scab may be forming, and if you disturb the scab it interrupts the healing process. Keep an eye on the area, and if you see redness, swelling, pus, or it feels warm to the touch, it's infected and Claire will need to see the vet for antibiotics. I hope this helps!

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