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My dog has a red, open lump after grooming. Should I see a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Eskimo Dog | Male | neutered | 8 years and 1 month old | 30 lbs

My dog is 8 years old and about five months ago had a growth removed from the left side of his neck. Three days ago he was at the groomers, where he gets his fur shaved (he's a pomimo!). Yesterday I found a smaller lump on the right side of his neck that looked to have some dried blood on it. I figured it was from groomers. But tonight it is even redder and almost looks like an open wound. Should I be concerned giving his growth history and take him to the vet ? Thanks!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Christie Long, DVM

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on January 27th, 2017

You don't mention exactly what the first growth was that was removed from the left side of his neck, but hopefully that was either benign, or perhaps not but was completely removed with the surgery. Lumps can appear anywhere on a dog, and they certainly seem to increase in frequency as dogs get older. I wouldn't panic, but yes, the 2 situations you've already suspected are possible, and I'll add a third:
1.) The groomer went too close with the clippers, and nicked him.
2.) This is a new growth, which may or may not be related to the first one (i.e. may be the same type or something completely different).
3.) The groomer could have nicked a growth with the clippers!

It does sound like it's pretty nasty, and I tend to be fairly aggressive with wounds that may have happened at the groomers, since they can easily get infected. I would recommend getting Brody in to your vet today for evaluation, cleaning of the area, and possibly oral antibiotics.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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