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My dog's stitches ripped after anal surgery. Is open flesh normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 80 lbs

My dog had a growth removed from his anus a few days ago. He's stitched up right above the opening (under the tail). Our vet said he might bleed when defecating, and it's normal, but it seems like most of his stitches have ripped, and the flesh is open - but not bleeding. It's nighttime, so I can't take him in right now. Is this common, or should I be really worried? Because I am.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on February 24th, 2019

Although a picture of it would help to determine the severity of the problem, your description is compatible with a wound breakdown.
Nothing to be worried about right now (so I do not think an emergency consult is needed) but a buster collar would be helpful to avoid any licking (if any) and I would recommend to keep the area clean with water.
Tomorrow a vet check up would be needed to confirm this suspicion and treat appropriately. Antibiotics will be required.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 24th, 2020
Hello. Yes, it does appear that there is a small opening, but I do not think you have to worry about a complete failure yet. If your vet has not provided an Elizabethan cone to keep Sunny from reaching the area, then definitely get one on him. Then, pick up a skin cleanser like Hibiclens, available at any pharmacy, & gently clean the area a couple of times each day. Pat dry. Also, make sure Sunny is not dragging his bottom on the floor. He may need a mild tranquilizer to keep him quiet. He should still be on an antibiotic & possibly some pain relief, so check with your vet about this. Rest & time should allow this to heal with few problems. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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My dog's wound reopened, and she has bloody stool. What should I do?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Given that she has evidence of wound dehiscence, she should be re-evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment. This wound is likely going to need to be addressed locally with wound cleaning, debridement and most likely by replacing those stitches that came out. At the same time, she is likely to need antibiotics as well. In the meantime, I recommend that you limit her activity as much as possible and use an e-collar to prevent further self-trauma. At the same time, they may be able to check her for the bloody stool which could be secondary to medications if she is on something like a pain killer or antibiotic after her surgery. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

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