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My dog's paw pad is cut and bleeding. Does he need an emergency vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Male | neutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 80 lbs

My dog somehow cut his back paw pad and it bled pretty badly. How is this treated? Should I take him to an emergency vet or can I wait a day until our normal vet is open? Do they stitch it up or glue it shut? How can I treat this at home?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 26th, 2018

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It depends on the location and severity of the cut as to how it would best be treated. Sometimes they can be closed, other times bandaging may be best. Ideally wounds should be addressed as quickly as possible to allow for optimal healing. Waiting another day may make closing the wound impossible if it's an option. Make sure that Moose cannot lick the wound, this may require an e-collar (lampshade cone of shame). If it is painful or continuing to bleed he should be seen tonight.

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    Answered By Justin Plunk, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 3rd, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Brady's wound needs attention from a veterinarian. If it is actively bleeding, use gentle pressure to control the hemorrhage en route to the nearest open veterinary hospital. The wound will need, at a minimum, some basic decontamination care but may also need to be closed, a decision to be made by the doctor. He will need antibiotics and potentially some anti-inflammatory medication. Avoid giving anything from your own medicine cabinet as it could interfere with medications prescribed by your vet and could be harmful to Brady's digestive system and/or kidneys as well as delay wound healing. Hope this helps!

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