I don't know what's going on… I woke up this morning and noticed a baseball-sized lump on Bella's neck out of nowhere. She's my golden retriever, and she seemed totally fine yesterday, running around the yard like she always does. I really don't remember her getting into anything or hurting herself. It's only been there since this morning, and I’m freaking out a bit. She doesn’t seem to be in pain, but she keeps scratching at it every now and then. I'm not sure if this is something I should rush to the vet for right now, or if I should wait and see if it changes. Has anyone else experienced something like this with their dog? I’d really appreciate any advice or thoughts... just trying to figure out what to do next.
Thanks for reaching out. That definitely sounds concerning. Let's figure out what might be going on with your furry friend. A sudden, large lump in your dog's neck can have a few causes. It could be an abscess, which is an infection often caused by dog bites or other injuries. Allergic reactions to insect bites or stings can also cause swelling. Another possibility is a cyst, which might not be painful but can still appear quite rapidly.
At home, you can gently apply a warm compress to the area for about 10 minutes, a few times a day, if your dog will tolerate it. This may provide some relief if it's an abscess or inflammatory swelling. Keep an eye on your dog's behavior, eating habits, and overall energy levels, as these give you clues about how they are feeling.
Watch for signs that might indicate a serious problem, such as difficulty breathing, rapid progression of the swelling, severe pain, or if your dog seems very lethargic or stops eating.
In any case, booking a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet professionals is the best way to get a proper assessment and guidance on the next steps. We're here to help you ensure your pet’s health and happiness.
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