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How do I treat my dog's open wound at home? When to call the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Schnoodle | Male | neutered | 3 years and 3 months old

What should I do to treat an open wound on my dog?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 21st, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Duffy. If the wound is deep and/or long, then you need to take him into a vet immediately for stitches. If it is shallow and superficial, then you can treat it at home. I would gently clean his wound with warm water and antiseptic soap. To keep him from licking at it, you can put an Ecollar on him. 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 he will need to see the vet for antibiotics to treat it. I hope this helps!

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