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Dog licking weepy wound despite cone. How to protect it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 6 months old | 4 lbs

Louie’s left gland popped over night he’s been to the vets this morning he’s had morphine and has been prescribed tramadol and norvacat for every 12 hours. Was just abit upset as they didn’t cover his wound and it is very weepy and bloody! Louie has also not had a bowel movement in over 18 hours, drank barely. Any tips on covering the wound so he can’t get to it the cone around his head doesn’t seem to be stopping him get to it. I made my own bandage but seems to fall off.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on February 24th, 2019

Poor Louie! In general you want to leave the wound open for drainage. It’s important that the material can get out of his body. You can have him wear a loose fitting pair of children’s underwear which can help contain some of the mess but still allow for air circulation and leakage of the wound. Typically the wound will leak for 3 to 5 days. If Louis can get around the collar, I recommend to either buy him a new collar that is bigger/longer or to cut and tape paper plates around the edges to lengthen the collar so he cannot get around it. Having a bowel movement may be uncomfortable for him. The tramadol can also cause some constipation. I recommend to call his veterinarian who may adjust the dosage. Taking Louie for a walk can also help to stimulate the bowels. Lastly, feed him something like boiled white meat chicken and boiled plain white rice for the next 2-3 days. Add some additional warm water to help increase his fluid intake. Let the doctor know as well that he is not drinking well. Sometimes the medications can upset the tummy but the abscess likely doesn’t make him feel good either. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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