Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 11/18/2008

Question
I have a 10 year old Shepard. He was bitten by something about two months ago and the swelling has not gone away. He continues to lick the area and keeps it open so it does not heal. I took him to the vet on another matter, allergies, and I asked her about the wound. She gave me some antibiotics but they have not done anything for him. Would you recommend that I  try to soak it with a warm cloth and try to puncture the wound as to try to get the fluids out or should I just leave it to hopefully heal soon I hope? By the way, when I squeeze the wound it produces some clear fluids, but the leg, ankle area, just won't stop swelling. I am at a loss on what to do short of taking him back to the vet.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration of my question.
Ginger (Jakenhoss)

Answer
I would take the dog back to the vet and let them see if there is a problem with the joint fluid escaping as a result of the wound.  I would also ask them if they can open up the area to see if there is a foreign body or even a tooth stuck in there.  That may be why the antibiotics aren't helping.