My dog's bug bite is swollen and bleeding. Can it wait until tomorrow?

Question

Samson had a bug bite a few days ago that started to have a little dried blood around it the next day. The skin is now irritated and it has grown in size, and has a little more blood, possibly from him scratching at it. Minor swelling. Does he need to go to the emergency vet today or can it wait until tomorrow? Behavior and appetite are normal. Pet's info: Dog | American Cocker Spaniel | Male | neutered | 2 years and 1 month old | 27 lbs

Jessica Keay, DVM · Accepted Answer

I am sorry to hear about Samson. If he is eating/drinking normally, normal energy level, and not in pain then I would not consider this an emergency. I would recommend an e-collar (the cone shaped collar) to prevent him from scratching the area if he is doing so, though it is hard to tell from the photo if an e-collar would end up rubbing against the area causing more harm, so you will have to determine that based on your visual assessment at home. Trimming the hair around the wound and cleaning with a mild soap or Hibiclens (available at drug stores) and applying a topical antibiotic ointment and benadryl cream may help until he can be seen tomorrow. If at any point his disposition does change then a trip to the vet is recommended.

My dog's bug bite is swollen and bleeding. Can it wait until tomorrow?

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