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My dog has a soft, blood-filled lump after a bite. Drain it?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bull Terrier | Male | unneutered

My do was bit by another dog and there was a wound open and bleeding so I tried to stop the bleeding and cleaned it properly. The wound stopped bleeding but over the course of 2 days there was a lump starting to develop which was full of dark blood. A week has gone by and the lump has started to grow in size and is soft to the touch as there is blood under the skin. I was thinking of draining this blood. Good idea or just leave it?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Strydom, DVM

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 18th, 2017

It sounds like Scar has a hematoma (blood blister). It is not a good idea to drain it as that often times leads to you introducing an infection into the hematoma and then it will become an abscess.

If it is bothering him then you should get him to a vet for treatment. If it is not bothering him then just leave it alone. Hematomas usually resolve on their own over time. Just keep in mind that it could take weeks to months to go completely away.

Hope this helps. Best wishes.
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