Dog's incision red after mammary tumor surgery. Is it a concern?

It's difficult to tell from just a picture. The skin is definitely discolored, but this could be from the surgical prep (iodine), or from dried blood. If the skin is not stained, then this would be abnormal and would indicate bruising or an infection. You can test for stained skin by gently wiping the skin with a little hydrogen peroxide. Avoid wiping the incision (the middle) and just wipe the edges. If it's staining, then the redness will start to be lifted with just a couple of wipes. If the wiping is unsuccessful at removing the discoloration, then it's likely bruising or infection and I'd recommend he get checked by the vet in the next 24 hours. I hope that helps and all is well with your dog.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor T! The redness below the incision can be from normal bruising after surgery. As long as it doesn't get worse it should fade over the next several days. If T is lethargic, not eating, the skin is hot or painful or if the redness worsens I would have her rechecked today by your vet. I wish T a speedy recovery!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The only thing I can't tell from the picture is if the skin is together at the red area. If it is then I think it is fine. The red area appears to be a scab or dried blood that will likely heal. Just be sure she isn't licking the incision (use an E-collar or T-shirt) and that you are keeping her exercise restricted (no running, jumping, stairs and leash walks outside only). Good luck!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! There is some redness and bruising that is to be expected following a big surgery like that. I think this is likely fine. However, if this appears to get any worse, have her evaluated by her veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. She is also beautiful! Good luck and have a good night!

Hi there! No picture came through with your question. If you re-submit with an in-focus picture of her incision, I will be more than happy to take a look. If the discharge is a translucent red color and in small amounts, it could be a normal part of the healing process. If the discharge is thick, green/yellow, or milky, that may indicate an infection that would require a course of oral antibiotics to treat. In the mean time, please do not put anything on the incision. Creams and ointments will trap bacteria underneath them and it is better to leave the area open to the air. If she is licking or bothering the incision, please restrain her from doing so by using a cone collar, inflatable tube collar, or shirt. I hope this helps! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Lina. Unfortunately only one picture is attached, and I think it may be the earliest picture given your description in the question. If the incision looks more red and scabby, that suggests infection. I would have her seen by a vet first thing in the morning to get it checked out to be safe. I hope this helps!

Hello, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It looks like that one focal area at the end of her spay incision is red, inflamed, and getting crusty. I definitely recommend having your vet take another look to make sure it's not getting infected, especially since that one spot looks dramatically different from the rest of the incision line (which appears to be healing nicely). Hope this helps!