He has a wound near his tail tip that's missing a lot of fur like you can see the pink. I went researching about causes to see what I could do because he would be licking it and crying. Saw hotspots and such that could be caused by fleas. (He did recently have fleas bc of my brothers dirty puppy....) But I've never noticed his tail until I saw him licking it a few days ago. I've used topical cream and bitter spray so he'll leave ur alone but he won't let me bandage it so... I'm hoping for something else I can do to make sure it doesn't get worse, treat it and preferably a way to convince him to let me cover it so he doesn't keep licking it
It sounds like your dog might be experiencing a hotspot or some irritation, possibly due to the recent flea infestation. Let's go through some steps you can take to help manage the situation effectively.
Firstly, it's important to keep the affected area clean. You can gently clean the wound using a mild antiseptic solution or saline to prevent any infection. It's best to avoid using hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, as these can further irritate the skin.
Since your dog is licking the area, it might be helpful to use an Elizabethan collar, often referred to as a cone, to prevent him from reaching the wound. This can be more effective than trying to bandage the area, especially if he tends to resist bandaging.
Regarding topical treatments, continue using the cream as recommended, but make sure it's appropriate for open wounds. Some creams are designed to soothe and promote healing, which can be beneficial.
Keep a close eye on the wound for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to visit your veterinarian for further evaluation.
Additionally, maintaining flea control is crucial. Continue with flea prevention treatments to avoid further infestations, which will help prevent additional skin issues.
To help distract your dog from the wound, engage him with toys or activities. This can reduce licking that might occur due to boredom or anxiety.
If the wound doesn't improve or seems to worsen, consulting with a veterinarian is essential. They may prescribe antibiotics or other medications if necessary.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further assistance. Thank you.
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