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My dog has a weeping, recurring skin wound. When should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 12 years and 9 months old | 44 lbs

My dog has a weeping wound on her haunch about the size of a £2 coin. She had the same on her other haunch a week or two ago. Didn't do anything with the previous one but have rinsed and trimmed the hair off this one and it looks really bad. Does she need to see a vet? If so, urgently?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amber W

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on September 27th, 2017

Ouch! Poor Bess! This area looks pretty infected and if she had one last week my suspicion is she had allergies or some other cause leading to these areas of bacterial dermatitis (hot spots). You can try to clip some of the hair away from the area and gently clean it but I think Bess will probably need to see a veterinarian to get oral antibiotics. I don't think she has to be seen right this instant but you should try to schedule within the next day or so. Use an e-collar to prevent her from licking the area and making the issue worse. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and I hope Bess' skin recovers quickly!

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    Answered By Susan England-Foster

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would recommend taking Bess to the vet to have the wound examined. It is hard to tell by the picture but I think she most likely needs antibiotics and anti inflammatories. At home I would recommend keeping it dry and clean until you can get her to the vet. I would recommend trying to take her within the next day. Hope that helps

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