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My dog has a weird skin mark. Is it an infection or abrasion?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Bulldog | Female | unspayed | 75 lbs

Bella, was perfectly fine yesterday night. I know because I gave her her usual goodnight belly rubs to bed. She had to sleep on a blanket cot made from all of her favorite blankets because she got fleas so we had her off of the carpet and out beds—but still in the house. Photos below are how she usually looks. But I noticed that today, when I was going to feed her, she had this ugly mark. We recently moved so she's always running around the backyard. Can someone please tell me what this is?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on September 25th, 2019

That looks more like a skin infection than a laceration but I suppose an abrasion is possible. For a wound like this, you may cleanse it once a day with a baby wipe. After it is dry, you can apply a dab or organic coconut oil and rub it in well twice a day (don't get it in her eyes or ears). If it doesn't start getting much better in a week, have her examined by the veterinarian. Regarding the fleas, top products for dogs are oral products such as Simparica and Nexgard. Top products for cats are topicals such as Revolution and Cheristan. There is also an oral product called Comfortis that both dogs and cats can take. You will need to switch all the pets over to a good flea product. Make sure to discuss these products with your veterinarian first. These products are generally safe for all pets but there are some conditions which are contraindicated for the oral products. Cleaning up and treating the house and yard will also help but it will not clear all the fleas. The main control is making sure the pets are on good products. This is what will ultimately stop the infestation. Also remember every female fleas lays about 50 eggs a day and it could take up to 6 months before the eggs hatch. Therefore, you will need to treat for at least 6 months. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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