My dog has a bleeding lump on her paw. Should I take her to the vet?

Any lumps/bumps that you notice on your dog should be checked out by your vet. Lumps can be any of these things: * abscess (infection) * cyst * cancer (benign or malignant) * wart There is no way I can tell you for sure what it is just based on your description or by looking at a photo but I have a suspicion that this may be a histiocytoma (benign tumor). ( https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952066 )

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Bruno. I recommend that he sees his veterinarian. He may need a procedure known as a fine needle aspirate to diagnose the mass. The veterinarian will use a small needle to collect a sample of cells to evaluate under the microscope. This will help to determine the type of mass and guide treatment. A histiocytoma is a common mass on the limb of a young dog. This is a benign growth. However, the outward appearance is the same as a cancerous growth known as a mast cell tumor. In the meantime, place an E-collar on him so that he does not cause any self-trauma. I hope this information helps!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be a benign or malignant growth. This is often differentiated by a test called a fine needle aspirate (FNA) which is a pain free, inexpensive and easy procedure which in most cases will help reach a diagnosis. Sometimes a biopsy is needed for a definitive diagnosis. I recommend that you have her evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. I am really hoping for something benign. Good luck and have a good day!

Your picture came through. Romeo has a major mass that is ulcerated and looks to be infected. He needs to see a vet right away for proper wound management, pain medication and antibiotics. This is a massive mass that cannot be managed at home without the help of your local vet. Once the infection is controlled then it can be discussed whether this mass can be debulked or not. If it cannot then your vet may recommend amputation of the leg. I am sorry your pet has such a massive tumor and I hope everything works out ok for your pet Romeo. Best wishes and take care.

This is definitely a mass, however it is not possible to say whether it is benign or malign from a photo. Your vet will likely suggest the complete surgical removal of this mass. He may also suggest a biopsy or a fine needle aspirate (FNA) where some tissue of the mass is removed and then either sent in to a laboratory or examined under the microscope. This will help determine whether this is a malignant mass or a harmless one.

That looks suspicious for a mass on MIssy's paw. If it is a mass, they can be easily irritated and prone to bleeding. In general, the nick/wound will heal uneventfully as long as you keep it clean and dry. You must also make sure MIssy does not lick the wound as this can make it get infected. I would not worry about applying any ointment as these superficial lesions should heal on their own. Dogs can get many types of Skin tumors/masses and while most of them are benign, I would recommend to make an appointment with your vet to get it checked out to be safe. The doctor may recommend to test the mass to make sure its not a malignant tumor. Testing is the only way to be 100% correct in knowing what type of mass Missy is dealing with. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Leahlah! It's hard to tell from just looking at a mass what it is exactly. I can tell that the area around it is inflamed. There are benign masses (hemangioma) that can form on the skin and bleed. It also could just be infected. There are also masses that can be cancerous. I recommend that you clean the area gently with mild soap and water twice daily then apply a triple antibiotic cream. If the area doesn't start to improve by early next week, I would have it looked at. Some local SPCA's have low cost veterinary clinics. You can call your local shelters and see if they offer them. I hope this helps and I wish you and Leahlah the best!