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My dog got scratched or bit by a groundhog. (I saw it ...
Sent to Dog Experts October 17 09:30 PM

My dog got scratched or bit by a groundhog. (I saw it happen but I'm not sure if it was a bite or a scratch). Now (about two hours later) he has a skin flap where his whiskers are about 1/2" long. It is just hanging there. It isn't through his lip. He is acting very skittish (he didn't act that way after the groundhog actually got him). HIs nose is hot and his ears even feel warm. He is current on all his shots. He even has the one for running around in the wilderness. He didn't eat his dinner. Is there anything I can do for him? I washed the spot with peroxide. Thanks. Tina

 

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
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October 17 9:39 PM (8 minutes and 21 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark

I'm SO glad you have him up to date on vaccinations since groundhogs do carry rabies ( http://www.cfainc.org/articles/rabies.html ).

The heat being generated and the reaction of your companion (skittish) is troublesome. There is probably a bacterial infection brewing. You've done the right thing using the hydrogen peroxide, but again, when a wound generates heat as you describe, it warrants an urgent vet intervention and probably antibiotic treatment.

You've been an excellent caregiver for him and again, I'm very glad to hear he's had his rabies shots. Please take him to his vet or an emergency clinic tonight for this, just to be sure it doesn't get much worse and more complicated to deal with as the hours pass.

 

God bless!




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