A Swollen, Scaly Leg on a 4-Week-Old Puppy
by A reader
Reader Question
A 4-week-old puppy we just got out from under the house has one leg that feels scaly and swollen. It must be a fungus. Only one other puppy has it, on a back toe. The other 7 aren't affected.
Answer from Our Team
A swollen, scaly leg on a young puppy is more likely an injury, an infection under the skin (abscess or cellulitis) or a bone or joint infection than a fungus. Puppies living under a house can also get bitten, scratched or exposed to parasites and mites.
Please have a vet check both affected puppies soon. Young puppies can get very sick quickly from infections, and they may need antibiotics or other treatment.
Keep them warm, make sure they are eating and gaining weight, and keep their area clean.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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