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Dog's bleeding lump: How to clean? Is triple antibiotic safe?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 55 lbs

I think my dog has a histiocytoma on his arm he is two years old and a pitbull. I’ve noticed it looking shiny like it’s starting to bleed, He’s had it for about a month now and it has grown quite a bit. Financially I can’t take him to the vet right now so I’m trying to take care of it the best I can I was wondering how I can keep it clean, and is it safe to use triple anabiotic on it?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Elizabeth

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on February 7th, 2020

You shoudl protect it from licking by having him wear an elizabethan collar at all times. You shoudl keep it clean and dry but only wash it if it gets dirty. Do not use hydrogen peroxide. You can apply a dab of organic coconut oil to it twice a day and rub it in well.
Just so you know, a histiocytoma is the most likely cause based upon his age but a cancerous Mast Cell tumor can look exactly the same. It typically affects older pets but young pets can get it.
When you can, I recommend to have the mass tested. Financing may be an option through Scratch Pay or Care Credit. I hope this helps.
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