My dog's paw is raw from a burr and licking. How can I treat it?

Question

Sherlock got a sticker burr between his toes and the combination of running around with it stuck in him and licking at it resulted in a raw spot on his toe. It doesn’t seem to be infected but he still wants to lick it. How should I treat this? Pet's info: Dog | Portuguese Water Dog | Male | neutered | 26 lbs

Jessica Keay, DVM · Accepted Answer

I am sorry to hear about Sherlock! If there is no oozing/discharge and the burr is definitely gone (occasionally we can get grass awns/etc. that burrow into the skin) you can try cleaning the area with soapy water and applying hydrocortisone creme or spray to decrease itching and inflammation, and putting an e-collar (the cone-shaped collar dogs wear after surgery, available at your vet or many pet stores) for several days to prevent him from being able to lick the area and allow it to heal. If the lesion persists with these efforts or begins to worsen/swell/ooze a discharge with green or yellow color, or cause lamness, then a visit to the vet is needed.

My dog's paw is raw from a burr and licking. How can I treat it?

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