Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has a deep cut. What should I put on it before seeing the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Border Terrier | Male | neutered | 13 years and 4 months old | 25 lbs

Hi my dog just came back with a nasty cut on his inside leg 1" long and quite deep)... I will take him to the vets tomorrow morning (12.15 at night here) but is there any antiseptic cream i can put on it? I presume it will need stitches... hes a very old terrier (15) so im quite worried.

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

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

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 26th, 2018

The problem with waiting until morning is that the wound, when older than 6 hours is considered an old wound. When it is fresh it can easily be sutured and will heal within 7-10 days. When the wound is older than 6 hours the vet may have to debride it more in order to be able to safely suture it or it will have to heal by second intention, ie without stitches from the inside out which will take longer. If the wound is bleeding I suggest you put a light bandage on it (loosely), otherwise do not bandage it and you also should not put any ointment or medication on the wound. Just leave it as it is. You can cut the hair around it off so no hair will get stuck to the wound.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! You are correct, this will require most likely stitches and also pain control medications and antibiotics. I would recommend you just keep the area around it as clean as possible. I do not recommend you put any topical therapy on it as this is too deep for that. Also, do not allow him to lick at it as that is going to make it a lot worse. For this purpose you could use an e-collar (cone) to prevent further self trauma. Your veterinarian will be able to evaluate this to determine how to best treat it and proceed accordingly. I think he will be fine with the right therapy. Best of luck!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My male dog's penis is stuck out and his scrotum has a painful rash.
Is your 11-year-old male dog experiencing a painful penis or rash? A certified vet explains potential paraphimosis urgency and why immediate care is vital.
Updated on September 23, 2025
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
Why is my 5-week-old chick struggling to walk with splayed legs?
Is your 5-week silkie chick struggling to walk, with splayed legs & curled feet? A board-certified vet explains possible causes like Mareks and what to do next.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored