I’m really worried and could use some advice. My dog recently had his neuter surgery, and everything seemed fine at first, but now I’m starting to notice a lot of scabbing on his scrotum. It doesn’t look like a normal healing process to me, and I can’t shake this anxious feeling that something isn’t right. He’s otherwise acting like his usual self—eating, drinking, and playing—but this scabbing thing is freaking me out. I’m terrified I’ve missed some post-op instructions or something. I’ve been trying to keep the area clean and make sure he doesn’t lick it too much, but it’s hard to watch him every second. Has anyone else experienced this with their pups? I’m debating whether to rush back to the vet or if it’s just part of the healing process. Any insights would be super helpful!
Hello! I'm sorry to hear that your pup is having some trouble after his neuter. Scabbing on the scrotum after surgery is not uncommon, as it’s part of the healing process. This can happen due to irritation from stitches, a mild infection, or your dog licking the area. It's also possible that he's having a slight reaction to the shaving or antiseptics used during surgery.
To help your dog at home, make sure he wears an Elizabethan collar (also known as the “cone of shame”) to stop him from licking or biting at the area, as this can worsen the scabbing. You can also gently clean the area with warm water and a soft cloth, being careful not to disturb the scabs. Ensure that his bedding is clean, and check the area daily for any changes.
Keep an eye out for signs of infection, like increasing redness, swelling, or pus. If he seems to be in pain, or if you notice a foul odor, these can be signs of a serious issue needing immediate attention.
If there’s any concern about the way the scrotum looks or if your dog's behavior changes (such as being unusually lethargic), it might be time for a check-up. Please consider booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet to get a tailored advice and peace of mind.
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