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Dog's skin detaching after abscess. Should I let him lick or bandage?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 5 years and 11 months old

My dog skin is detaching . His right leg was little swelled and fever as well i took him to vet. He gave him antibiotics and glucose . Same evening his swelling multiply 5times . I went again to vet he puncture with needle and remove the puss . It take 3 days to rinse out . I think this problem is called toxemia . But nw his skin is melting from that area and is detaching what should be done. I m regularly consulting vet but still i need opinion . should i let him lick or bandage it

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 24th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petcoach! I am so sorry that Nanna is so sick! It sounds like he has a severe skin infection or abscess that is causing septicemia. The skin is dying from the infection. It may take time for the skin to all fully declare itself. Once that happens hopefully the skin can be closed primarily or with a skin flap. But if it can't be maybe amputation of the limb is possible. I would not let Nanna lick the leg and I do not recommend bandaging it unless that is what your Vet recommends. Bandaging such a severe wound would require daily bandage changes and special bandage material that wouldn't allow the skin to stick to it. I would recommend using an Elizabethan collar (cone) or donut to prevent licking. I wish you both the best of luck! http://pet-supplies.drsfostersmith.com/search?w=elizabethan%20dog%20collar

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    Answered By Jennifer Ladd, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor boy! Sounds like a horrible abscess. You should definitely not let him lick it. It should remain bandaged with daily bandage changes until a bed of granulation tissue forms. Your veterinarian can help you to determine when that happens. I like to alternate my bandages with sterile honey, and other dressings to promote granulation. If it is a large area it may need to be debrided under sedation as the tissue dies, and may even require a graft. Even large areas will heal over time by second intention although they may look less than ideal. Also make sure he is on antibiotics until healed. Poor thing!

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