How to properly treat a dog’s wound from a tick bite?

Recognizing a Tick Bite and Its Potential Dangers

Identifying a Tick Bite

Visual Cues

Visual cues guide the assessment and management of a canine wound caused by a tick. Observable signs determine whether basic cleaning suffices or veterinary intervention is required.

Redness extending beyond the bite site suggests inflammation; intense redness may indicate early infection.
Swelling that increases in size within hours signals fluid accumulation and possible tissue reaction.
Discharge that is clear, yellow, or pus‑like differentiates normal exudate from bacterial infection; foul odor accompanies the latter.
Heat felt on the skin surface reflects increased blood flow, a hallmark of inflammatory response.
Excessive scratching or licking points to irritation; persistent behavior may exacerbate tissue damage.
Presence of a tick embedment or residual mouthparts signals incomplete removal, raising infection risk.
Crusting or scabbing over the wound masks underlying problems; removal of crust reveals true tissue condition.

When visual assessment reveals any combination of spreading redness, swelling, purulent discharge, foul odor, or persistent self‑trauma, initiate immediate veterinary evaluation. In the absence of these indicators, follow a standard protocol: clean the area with mild antiseptic solution, apply a non‑adhesive dressing if needed, and monitor for changes at least twice daily. Continuous observation of visual cues ensures timely escalation and promotes optimal recovery.

Palpation and Examination

Palpation and examination are the first critical actions when addressing a canine wound caused by a tick. Direct visual inspection identifies the bite site, surrounding skin condition, and any visible tick remnants. Use clean gloves and a magnifying lens to enhance detail.

Gently press around the lesion to assess tissue firmness; increased hardness may indicate inflammation or abscess formation.
Observe for redness, heat, or discharge, which suggest secondary bacterial infection.
Feel for swelling of regional lymph nodes; enlargement often signals systemic response.
Trace the wound edges to ensure the tick’s mouthparts are fully removed; retained parts can provoke ongoing irritation.
Record wound size, depth, and any necrotic tissue to guide treatment planning.

Accurate palpation provides immediate feedback on the wound’s severity and helps determine whether additional interventions, such as antimicrobial therapy or surgical cleaning, are required.

Risks Associated with Tick Bites

Common Diseases Transmitted by Ticks

Ticks transmit a range of bacterial, protozoal, and viral agents that can complicate a wound left by a feeding arthropod. Recognizing these pathogens helps veterinarians choose appropriate diagnostics and supportive measures.

Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) – Spirochete that may cause lameness, fever, and joint inflammation. Early detection relies on serology; doxycycline is the standard treatment.
Anaplasma phagocytophilum – Causes fever, lethargy, and thrombocytopenia. Polymer‑chain‑reaction testing confirms infection; tetracycline antibiotics are effective.
Ehrlichia canis – Leads to fever, weight loss, and platelet depletion. Diagnosis uses PCR or serology; doxycycline administered for at least 28 days clears the infection.
Rickettsia rickettsii (Rocky Mountain spotted fever) – Produces fever, petechial rash, and vascular damage. Prompt administration of doxycycline within 24 hours reduces mortality.
Babesia spp. – Protozoan parasites that cause hemolytic anemia, jaundice, and icterus. Microscopic blood smear or PCR identifies the organism; combination therapy with atovaquone and azithromycin is common.
Tick‑borne encephalitis virus – Rare in dogs but may cause neurological signs such as seizures and ataxia. No specific antiviral treatment; supportive care is essential.

Each pathogen can exacerbate inflammation at the bite site, delay wound healing, or provoke systemic illness. When treating a canine tick bite, assess for fever, changes in appetite, and abnormal blood work. Early antimicrobial therapy targeting the most prevalent agents—particularly doxycycline—mitigates the risk of secondary infection and systemic spread. Monitoring for signs specific to the listed diseases ensures timely intervention and improves recovery outcomes.

Signs of Infection

After a tick is removed, the bite site must be examined regularly for any indication that bacterial invasion is occurring. Early detection of infection prevents complications and speeds recovery.

Typical clinical signs include:

Redness that expands beyond the immediate wound margins
Swelling or edema that increases in size
Warmth of the area compared to surrounding skin
Purulent or serous discharge, often with an unpleasant odor
Persistent licking, chewing, or obvious pain when the area is touched
Fever, manifested by a temperature above 102.5 °F (39.2 °C)
Enlarged regional lymph nodes, palpable under the jaw or neck
Lethargy, loss of appetite, or other changes in behavior

If one or more of these symptoms appear, veterinary assessment and appropriate antimicrobial therapy are warranted. Continuous observation and prompt intervention are essential components of effective wound management following a tick bite.

Immediate Actions After Discovering a Tick Bite

Safe Tick Removal Techniques

Necessary Tools

When addressing a canine wound caused by a tick, the following instruments are essential for effective care:

Fine‑point tweezers or forceps designed for tick removal, allowing precise grasping of the tick’s mouthparts.
Sterile scalpel or sharp scissors for trimming surrounding hair and exposing the wound.
Antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine) to cleanse the area and reduce bacterial load.
Sterile gauze pads and non‑adhesive dressing material for covering the wound after cleaning.
Disposable gloves to maintain hygiene and protect both the handler and the animal.
Small syringe with sterile saline for flushing the wound cavity.
Topical antibiotic ointment (e.g., mupirocin) to apply after irrigation.
Bandage roll or self‑adhesive elastic wrap to secure the dressing without restricting circulation.
Tick identification card or reference guide, useful for confirming species and assessing disease risk.

Having these tools readily available ensures prompt, hygienic intervention and supports optimal healing of the bite site.

Step-by-Step Removal Process

When a tick attaches to a dog’s skin, immediate removal reduces the risk of infection and disease transmission. The following protocol ensures safe extraction and proper wound care.

Prepare supplies – Gather fine‑point tweezers or a tick‑removal hook, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine), sterile gauze, and a sealed container for the tick.
Secure the dog – Have an assistant hold the animal gently but firmly to prevent sudden movement.
Locate the tick – Identify the head and body; avoid crushing the abdomen.
Grasp close to skin – Using tweezers, pinch the tick as near to the surface as possible, keeping the mouthparts intact.
Apply steady traction – Pull upward with constant pressure; do not twist or jerk, which can leave mouthparts embedded.
Inspect the bite site – Verify that the entire tick, including the hypostome, has been removed. If fragments remain, repeat the removal step.
Disinfect the area – Clean the wound with antiseptic, then dab with sterile gauze to control bleeding.
Preserve the tick – Place the specimen in the sealed container with a small amount of alcohol for identification if veterinary testing is needed.
Monitor the dog – Observe the site for redness, swelling, or discharge over the next 48 hours. Contact a veterinarian if signs of infection appear or if the dog shows lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite.

Following this systematic approach minimizes tissue damage and supports rapid healing.

Initial Wound Cleaning and Disinfection

Recommended Antiseptics

When a tick bite leaves an open wound on a dog, selecting an effective antiseptic is critical to prevent infection and promote healing.

Chlorhexidine (4% solution) – Broad‑spectrum antimicrobial; safe for topical use on intact skin and minor wounds. Apply with a sterile gauze, allow to dry, then rinse with sterile saline after 2–3 minutes if the dog shows irritation.
Povidone‑iodine (10% solution) – Strong antiseptic with rapid action against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Dilute to 1% with sterile water before application to avoid tissue irritation. Use a cotton swab to gently cleanse the wound area.
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) – Effective for initial decontamination; limited to a single short‑term application because of potential cytotoxicity. Apply a small amount, let it foam, then rinse thoroughly with sterile saline.
Veterinary‑grade benzalkonium chloride (0.13%–0.2%) – Non‑ionic surfactant with bacteriostatic properties. Suitable for repeated cleaning without harming healthy tissue. Apply with a sterile swab, let dry, and repeat every 8–12 hours.
Silver‑based dressings (e.g., nanocrystalline silver gel) – Provide sustained antimicrobial activity. Place a thin layer over the cleaned wound, cover with a non‑adhesive bandage, and change dressing daily.

General protocol: clean the area with sterile saline, apply the chosen antiseptic, allow it to act for the recommended contact time, then rinse if required. Monitor the wound for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge; seek veterinary care if symptoms progress. Selecting an antiseptic that balances potency with tissue tolerance ensures optimal recovery for the canine patient.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Treating a dog’s tick‑bite wound requires careful attention to detail; overlooking small steps can lead to infection, delayed healing, or systemic illness. The following points outline the most frequent errors and how to prevent them.

Removing the tick without the proper tool. Using fingers or tweezers that crush the body often leaves mouthparts embedded, increasing the risk of bacterial entry. Employ a fine‑pointed tick‑removal device, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, and pull straight upward with steady pressure.
Applying excessive force or twisting the tick. Aggressive motions can rupture the tick’s abdomen, releasing pathogens into the wound. Maintain a smooth, steady pull; do not twist or jerk.
Ignoring the wound after extraction. Failing to clean the site allows bacteria from the tick’s saliva or the environment to proliferate. Immediately irrigate the area with sterile saline or a mild antiseptic solution, then pat dry with a clean gauze.
Using harsh chemicals or human topical ointments. Products containing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or human‑grade corticosteroids can irritate canine skin and delay closure. Choose a veterinary‑approved antiseptic spray or a non‑steroidal ointment formulated for dogs.
Skipping a veterinary assessment. Assuming the bite is harmless without monitoring for signs of infection or disease overlooks potential complications such as Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, or Anaplasmosis. Schedule a veterinary examination within 24–48 hours, especially if the dog shows lethargy, fever, or joint swelling.
Delaying wound dressing changes. Leaving an old bandage in place creates a moist environment favorable to bacterial growth. Replace dressings every 12–24 hours, inspecting the site for redness, swelling, or discharge.
Overlooking tick‑prevention measures after treatment. Neglecting ongoing protection invites repeated bites and subsequent wounds. Maintain a regular tick‑preventive regimen appropriate for the dog’s size, age, and lifestyle.

By adhering to these guidelines, owners minimize the likelihood of complications and support swift, uncomplicated recovery.

Post-Removal Wound Care and Monitoring

Ongoing Wound Management

Applying Topical Treatments

Topical treatment is the first line of defense after a tick bite creates an open wound on a dog’s skin. Immediate cleaning removes debris and reduces bacterial load, creating a suitable surface for medication.

Begin by flushing the area with lukewarm saline or sterile water. Gently pat dry with a clean gauze pad; avoid rubbing, which can damage fragile tissue.

Select an antiseptic that is safe for canine use. Common options include:

Chlorhexidine solution (0.05 %–0.2 %)
Povidone‑iodine diluted 1:10 with water
Diluted hydrogen peroxide (3 % solution, used sparingly)

Apply the chosen antiseptic with a sterile swab, covering the entire wound margin. Allow the liquid to air‑dry before proceeding.

After the antiseptic dries, spread a thin layer of a veterinary‑approved topical ointment. Preferred formulations contain:

Neomycin‑bacitracin for broad‑spectrum bacterial coverage
Silver sulfadiazine for burn‑type lesions
Aloe‑gel with lidocaine for soothing and mild analgesia

Use a clean fingertip or applicator to distribute the ointment evenly, ensuring contact with all exposed tissue. Do not exceed the recommended amount; excess product can impede healing.

Reapply the antiseptic and ointment twice daily, typically in the morning and evening. Continue treatment for 5–7 days, or until the wound shows signs of granulation and no longer exudes fluid. Monitor the site for swelling, pus, or increasing redness; these indicate infection and require veterinary intervention.

If the dog exhibits excessive licking, scratching, or swelling, protect the area with an Elizabethan collar or a breathable bandage. Remove bandages after each cleaning session to prevent moisture buildup.

Successful topical care reduces the risk of secondary infection and supports rapid tissue regeneration after a tick‑induced wound.

Preventing Secondary Infections

Proper wound management after a tick bite includes measures that stop bacterial colonization and prevent deeper tissue infection. Clean the area with a mild antiseptic solution, then apply a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing that maintains moisture without trapping debris. Replace the dressing every 12‑24 hours, inspecting the site for redness, swelling, or discharge.

Use a broad‑spectrum topical antibiotic approved for canine use; apply a thin layer after cleaning.
Administer a systemic antibiotic if the wound shows signs of infection or if the dog is immunocompromised; follow the veterinarian’s dosage schedule precisely.
Keep the dog’s activity level low for 48 hours to limit mechanical stress on the healing tissue.
Monitor temperature and behavior; fever or lethargy indicates possible systemic infection and requires immediate veterinary evaluation.

Regular grooming reduces the chance of secondary pathogens entering the wound. Trim surrounding hair to improve air flow, but avoid shaving the entire area, which can increase irritation. Maintain a clean environment—sanitize bedding and limit exposure to other animals until the wound has fully closed.

Observing for Complications

Symptoms Requiring Veterinary Attention

A dog that has been bitten by a tick may develop complications that require immediate professional care. Recognize the following signs as indicators that veterinary intervention is essential.

Rapidly spreading redness or swelling around the bite site
Persistent or worsening pain, indicated by the dog whining, limping, or guarding the area
Fever, evidenced by a temperature above 103 °F (39.4 °C) or lethargy and loss of appetite
Presence of pus, blood, or a foul odor from the wound, suggesting infection
Signs of systemic illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing
Sudden onset of neurological symptoms, including disorientation, tremors, or seizures

If any of these symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian promptly to prevent serious health risks. Early assessment and treatment can limit tissue damage, reduce the chance of tick‑borne disease, and improve the dog’s recovery outcome.

Follow-up Schedule

After the bite site has been cleaned, disinfected, and any retained tick removed, a structured follow‑up plan is essential to ensure proper healing and to detect complications early.

Day 0 (initial visit): Document wound size, depth, and any signs of infection; administer prescribed antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory medication; schedule the next check‑in.
Day 1–2: Observe the dog at home; note any increase in swelling, redness, or discharge. If any change occurs, contact the veterinarian promptly.
Day 3–5: Return for a brief examination. The veterinarian will reassess the wound, evaluate pain response, and adjust medication if necessary.
Day 7: Conduct a thorough inspection. The wound should show reduced redness and no pus. Suture removal (if applicable) may be performed at this stage.
Day 14: Perform a comprehensive check. Look for complete epithelialization and confirm that the dog’s activity level has returned to normal. A final dose of antibiotics may be given if infection risk persists.
Day 30: Complete the schedule with a final assessment to ensure no delayed complications such as granuloma formation or secondary infection.

During each visit, the veterinarian will evaluate:

Presence of exudate or foul odor.
Degree of edema and erythema.
Temperature of the surrounding skin compared with the body temperature.
Dog’s behavior, including appetite, lethargy, or signs of pain.

Immediate veterinary attention is required if the dog exhibits:

Rapidly spreading swelling.
Persistent or worsening discharge.
Fever above normal range.
Lameness or reluctance to move the affected limb.

Adhering to this timeline maximizes recovery speed, minimizes infection risk, and provides clear checkpoints for both owner and clinician.

When to Seek Professional Veterinary Help

Red Flags Indicating Urgent Care

Severe Swelling or Redness

Severe swelling or redness around a tick bite indicates an acute inflammatory response that may progress to infection if not addressed promptly.

First, assess the area. If the skin is hot, markedly enlarged, or the dog shows signs of pain, consider the reaction severe.

Immediate actions:

Gently clean the site with a mild antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine diluted to 0.05%).
Apply a cold compress for 10‑15 minutes, repeated every hour, to reduce edema.
Administer a veterinarian‑approved non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drug (NSAID) according to the dog’s weight and health status.

Second, monitor for systemic signs such as fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Their appearance warrants veterinary evaluation without delay.

If swelling persists beyond 24 hours, or if the skin develops pus, ulceration, or the dog exhibits worsening discomfort, a veterinarian should be consulted for possible antibiotic therapy and further diagnostics (e.g., cytology, culture).

Preventive measures include regular tick checks, prompt removal of attached ticks with fine‑pointed tweezers, and the use of approved acaricidal products to minimize future bites.

Lethargy or Behavioral Changes

Lethargy or sudden changes in behavior often signal that a tick‑related wound is developing a complication. These signs may appear within hours or days after the bite and can accompany infection, inflammation, or the transmission of tick‑borne pathogens.

When a dog shows reduced activity, reluctance to move, or unusual aggression, the condition should be treated as urgent. Immediate assessment helps prevent systemic illness and limits tissue damage.

Actions to take:

Observe the dog for at least 15 minutes in a quiet environment; note the duration and intensity of inactivity or agitation.
Measure temperature; values above 103 °F (39.4 °C) indicate fever, a common accompaniment of infection.
Inspect the bite site for swelling, redness, discharge, or a hardening area; record any progression.
Contact a veterinarian promptly; provide details of observed lethargy, behavioral shift, and wound appearance.
Follow veterinary instructions regarding pain relief, anti‑inflammatory medication, or antibiotics; administer exactly as prescribed.
Monitor the dog for improvement over the next 24 hours; persistent or worsening lethargy warrants a follow‑up visit.

Early recognition of reduced energy or altered conduct allows timely intervention, reduces the risk of systemic disease, and supports faster recovery from a tick‑induced wound.

Diagnostic Procedures and Treatments

Blood Tests

Blood tests are a critical component of managing a canine tick‑bite wound because they reveal systemic effects that are not evident from the skin lesion alone. After removing the tick and cleaning the wound, a veterinarian should collect a sample to assess for infection, inflammation, and potential tick‑borne diseases.

Key laboratory evaluations include:

Complete blood count (CBC) to detect anemia, leukocytosis, or eosinophilia that may indicate bacterial infection or an immune response.
Serum biochemistry panel to monitor organ function, especially kidney and liver parameters, which can be affected by pathogens such as Babesia or Ehrlichia.
Specific serologic or PCR tests for tick‑borne agents (e.g., Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi) when clinical signs or exposure risk justify targeted screening.

Interpretation of results guides therapy. Elevated white‑cell counts or positive pathogen tests warrant antimicrobial treatment tailored to the identified organism. Abnormal organ values may require supportive care, dosage adjustment of medications, or referral to a specialist. Repeat testing after 7–10 days helps verify treatment efficacy and detect delayed seroconversion.

Integrating blood‑test findings with wound care—such as topical antiseptics, systemic antibiotics, and pain management—provides a comprehensive approach that minimizes complications and promotes rapid recovery. Regular monitoring ensures early detection of secondary issues and supports informed decision‑making throughout the healing process.

Antibiotics and Other Medications

When a tick bite leaves an open wound on a dog, timely pharmacological intervention reduces infection risk and promotes healing. Antibiotic therapy should begin as soon as bacterial contamination is suspected, especially if the wound shows swelling, redness, or discharge.

First‑line agents: amoxicillin‑clavulanate (15–20 mg/kg, orally, twice daily) for 7–10 days covers common skin pathogens such as Staphylococcus and Pasteurella.
Alternative: doxycycline (5 mg/kg, orally, twice daily) when tick‑borne diseases like ehrlichiosis are a concern; treatment length extends to 14 days.
For resistant infections, culture‑guided therapy may require fluoroquinolones (e.g., enrofloxacin 5 mg/kg, once daily) or third‑generation cephalosporins (e.g., cefovecin 8 mg/kg, subcutaneously, single dose).

Adjunct medications support recovery:

Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (carprofen 4 mg/kg, orally, once daily) alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Topical antiseptics such as chlorhexidine‑based solutions can be applied twice daily after gentle cleaning.
Antiparasitic agents (e.g., ivermectin, 0.2 mg/kg, orally, weekly) prevent secondary infestations and address potential tick‑borne pathogens.

Monitoring includes daily assessment of wound size, exudate character, and temperature. If systemic signs (fever, lethargy, loss of appetite) develop, veterinary re‑evaluation is required to adjust antimicrobial choice or add supportive care.

Prevention Strategies for Future Tick Bites

Tick Repellents and Preventatives

Topical Treatments

When a tick bite leaves an open wound on a dog, immediate topical care reduces infection risk and promotes healing. First, rinse the area with sterile saline or a mild antiseptic solution to remove debris and residual tick saliva. Pat the skin dry with a clean gauze pad; avoid rubbing, which can enlarge the lesion.

Effective topical agents include:

Chlorhexidine solution (0.05‑0.2%) – broad‑spectrum antiseptic; apply with a sterile swab.
Povidone‑iodine (10%) – iodine‑based disinfectant; dilute 1:10 with saline for sensitive skin.
Veterinary‑grade honey – natural antibacterial; spread a thin layer over the wound.
Silver‑containing spray or gel – releases antimicrobial ions; suitable for moderate wounds.
Hydrogel dressing – maintains moisture, supports tissue regeneration; replace daily.

Application steps:

Dispense a small amount of the chosen agent onto a sterile gauze pad.
Gently cover the wound, ensuring full contact without excess pressure.
Allow the product to air‑dry for 1–2 minutes before securing with a non‑adhesive bandage if necessary.
Reapply the treatment every 8–12 hours, or sooner if the product’s instructions demand.

Observe the site for swelling, pus, or increasing redness. If any signs of systemic illness appear—fever, lethargy, loss of appetite—consult a veterinarian promptly. Continuous topical care, combined with proper wound cleaning, maximizes recovery and minimizes complications.

Oral Medications

Oral medications are essential for preventing infection, reducing inflammation, and eliminating residual tick‑borne pathogens after a bite.

Antibiotics target bacterial contamination that can enter the wound. Common choices include:

Amoxicillin‑clavulanate, 12.5 mg/kg twice daily for 7–10 days.
Doxycycline, 5 mg/kg once daily for 14 days, effective against Borrelia spp.
Trimethoprim‑sulfamethoxazole, 15 mg/kg twice daily for 5–7 days, used when first‑line agents are contraindicated.

Anti‑inflammatory and analgesic drugs control swelling and pain. Typical regimens are:

Carprofen, 2.5 mg/kg once daily for up to 5 days.
Meloxicam, 0.1 mg/kg once daily for 3–5 days.
Gabapentin, 5–10 mg/kg every 12 hours for neuropathic discomfort, administered for up to 10 days.

Systemic antiparasitic agents eradicate any remaining tick larvae or eggs that may have been ingested. Recommended products:

Ivermectin, 0.2 mg/kg once, repeated after 2 weeks if needed.
Afoxolaner, 2.5 mg/kg once monthly, provides ongoing protection against new infestations.

Veterinary oversight ensures correct dosage, identifies drug interactions, and monitors adverse reactions. Owners should observe the dog for signs of vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or worsening wound condition and report them promptly. Continuous evaluation determines whether therapy requires extension or adjustment.

Environmental Control

Yard Maintenance

Keeping the yard clean reduces the risk of tick bites and helps manage any wound a dog may acquire. Regular mowing prevents tall grass where ticks hide. Removing leaf litter and debris eliminates humid micro‑environments that attract ticks. Trimming shrubs and low branches opens the ground to sunlight, making it less hospitable for tick development.

When a bite occurs, the surrounding area should be inspected and treated to prevent secondary infection. Follow these steps:

Sweep the immediate zone with a stiff brush to dislodge detached ticks.
Apply a pet‑safe acaricide to the perimeter, focusing on high‑traffic paths.
Disinfect the ground with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution to lower bacterial load.
Monitor the wound daily; clean with sterile saline and cover with a breathable bandage if needed.
Replace any damaged lawn sections with resistant grass varieties to maintain a uniform surface that discourages tick habitation.

Consistent irrigation prevents dry soil cracks where ticks can shelter, while proper drainage avoids standing water that fosters tick larvae. Periodic soil testing ensures pH levels support healthy grass growth, reducing the need for chemical interventions that could irritate a dog’s skin. By integrating these yard‑maintenance practices, owners create a safer environment and provide a supportive backdrop for effective wound care.

Regular Inspections

Regular inspections are essential after a tick attachment because the bite site can develop infection, inflammation, or secondary complications. Immediate visual checks confirm that the tick has been fully removed and that the skin remains intact.

Inspect the area at least once daily for the first three days, then every other day until healing is complete. During each examination, follow these steps:

Clean hands with antiseptic before touching the wound.
Gently part the fur around the bite to expose the skin.
Look for redness, swelling, or discharge.
Feel for warmth or tenderness indicating inflammation.
Note any changes in size or shape of the lesion.
Record observations in a log to track progress.

If any of the following appear, seek veterinary assistance promptly: expanding redness, pus formation, persistent pain, fever, or loss of appetite. Consistent monitoring enables early detection of complications and supports effective wound management.