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My pet's paw pad is scraped with skin lifted. What should I do next?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Maltipoo | Female | spayed | 13 lbs

Pet has scraped paw pad-lifted from skin halfway off. Only one pad effected. We were not home at time of injury. She was caged at time. She licked paw until bleeding stopped. Cleaned wound, bandaged paw with nonstick bandage and wrapped with gauze and stretchy tape. What else do l need to do to?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on November 6th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is difficult to know accurately without being able to evaluate this lesion. The therapy recommended and how to manage this would depend on the severity of the laceration. If it is superficial, epsom salt baths would be recommended. If it is too deep that would not be recommended. I recommend you have her evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to see it up close and recommend accordingly. Good luck and have a great day!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 14th, 2016

    If it is just a superficial scrape and not too deep, then it should heal well. Scabs help wound heal properly by covering the wound and walling it off from infection. You have the option of covering the paw with bandages, cleaning it with an antiseptic (Betadine diluted 50:50 with warm water OR Chlorhexidine solution 3%), and applying a very thin of Neosporin to the wound twice a day (if needed). Just be sure to allow the Neosporin to sit for 20 mins un-licked so that it absorbs well. If the cut is a bit deeper than you realize and/or the wound isn't healing properly after a few days, then seek vet assistance for proper wound care at that time.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 24th, 2020

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Thumper. Poor girl! I would gently clean the wound with warm water and antiseptic soap. To keep her from licking at it, you can put an Ecollar on her. You can get one at a pet store or make one at home. Keep the wound clean and dry, and monitor it for signs of infection. If you see redness, swelling, warmth to the touch, or pus, then it is infected and she will need to see the vet for antibiotics to treat it. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 19th, 2018

    Ouch, poor Jinny! Clean her foot pad with warm water and antiseptic soap. Use gauze pads to cushion the bottom of the foot and wrap it with a bandage, making sure it isn't too tight and cut off circulation. This should help decrease the pain of walking with the foot cushioned. Change the bandage daily until her foot is healed. Do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. Best of luck, I hope this helps.

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