Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog is on chemo and has an open sore. Is it related? How to help?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 6 years old | 96.5 lbs

My seven year old boxer/shepard has anal sac adenocarcinoma. We had the tumor removed a little over a month ago, but they could not get he entire tumor. We are currently trying metronomic chemo to help prevent spreading. The past week a large open sore developed on my dogs chest and is taking the prescribed antibiotics for that, but it is not helping. Could the chemo be causing the sore? Any ideas on how to help our pup?

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Heidi DVM, CVA, CCRT, CVTP, CVSMT, CVCH

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner

Published on March 16th, 2018

I'm so sorry to hear that Comus is dealing with this. Unfortunately, since chemotherapy decreases the immune system, infections can be common in dogs treated with chemotherapy. I would recommend considering some special wound creams or ointments and bandaging techniques to help speed healing. You veterinarian may be able to teach you to do bandage changes at home. I would also ask your veterinarian about trying LASER treatments to help speed healing. Many vet clinics have LASERS, so that would a simple addition to Comus' treatment plan. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?
Support your pet mom and newborn babies! A certified vet offers advice on ideal room temperature, minimizing stress, and quiet intervention for food & water.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a soft lump. How long can I wait before seeing a vet?
Discovered a soft, nickel-sized lump on your pet's chest? A certified veterinarian offers expert advice on tracking changes and when to seek professional evaluation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My bird has PFBD. Is chest trembling a normal sign or a symptom?
Cloudy has PFBD and chest trembling. Is this normal? A certified Vet Tech explains potential secondary issues like infections and advises vet consultation for testing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored