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My dog has bumps, red scabs, and fur loss. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 4 years and 5 months old

We first noticed this small bumps on Hannah’s right shoulder 2 days ago. They feel like small bumps but then when you pull apart the fur, you can see there is a red scab under it. Also, when you pull the fur directly over the area, it comes right off, leaving a small bald area with the red scab shown. Hannah has about 10 of these on her shoulder and on her lower stomach. Also We found a tick on her 2 weeks ago. plan to take her to a vet to get it seen, but was wondering if it Was urgent? Thanks!

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1 Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 4th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Hannah! I'm glad you are planning to set up an appointment. It looks like in the last 2 pictures that she may have a bacterial skin infection. The vet will be able to tell more in person. We treat skin infections with oral antibiotics, medicated shampoo and something to stop the scratching. Skin infections can be from allergies to the environment or from her food. I do not think the skin issue is related to the tick you removed but be sure to have her on a good flea and tick preventative. I wish Hannah the best!

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