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My dog has a crusty ear scab after boarding. Is it infected?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Foxhound | Male | neutered

Hello! We recently picked up our foxhound from boarding. We noticed this scab on his ear and just figured it was a dog bite healing over but now I’m not so sure. The scab in question is raised and very crusty. He isn’t scratching it or acting strangely. Could he have caught something while at boarding? Is it infected? Is it just a normal wound healing over? Any insight would be much appreciated, thanks!

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Penelope Graben, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 2nd, 2021

Hi there, This appears to be a simple, uninfected wound and scab. If it begins to swell or drain fluid those would be reasons to have him checked by his vet. Otherwise I expect it will heal on its own within a couple of weeks. As a warning, ear tips and margins tend to be very bloody so if he accidentally scratches it open before its healed, it may be a bit of a mess, but its not a reason to panic will clot on its own again with time and gentle pressure. Hope this helps. Have a good evening.

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