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Dog urethrostomy healing: wound care, bathing, and licking concerns?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Smooth Coat) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 2 months old | 12 lbs

Hi! Our boy Julio had a Urethrostomy on 4/29/20 - He's on week 4 now of healing. Heres a pic: Question He likes to roll on the rug and we've realized its inevitable stuff will get down there on the wound - 1. How concerned should we be? 2. At this stage of healing, can we bathe him normally? 3. I noticed that there's the big opening below - closer to anus - and almost like a tiny tiny second opening - is this ok? 4. How long until this is fully healed? What is he licks it?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 25th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Julio. Thank you for the pictures, that really helps. It looks like the area is still healing, as it's a bit red. I would use a damp clothe to wipe off any debris he gets in the area from rolling around. Check with his vet to be sure it's ok to bathe him now. I would have this tiny opening checked out by the vet to make sure it's ok as I can't say that without seeing him in person. This should be closed to fully healed by now, but avoid having him lick it. I hope this helps!

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