I don’t know what’s going on… I noticed something strange on Bella this morning while we were having our usual cuddle on the couch. There’s this pink, swollen lump on her nipple, and it kind of freaked me out. She doesn’t seem to be in any pain, but she keeps licking it, which makes me nervous. I feel terrible because I hadn’t noticed it until now — how long has it been there? I’m worried, should I be rushing her to the vet? It’s been such a hectic week, and now I can’t stop thinking about what it could be. If anyone’s experienced something similar, I’d really appreciate any advice or reassurance.
I completely understand why you're worried about noticing a pink and large growth on your dog's nipple. It's always a bit unsettling when something like this pops up. There are a few different possibilities for what this could be. It might be a benign growth, such as a lipoma, which is just a fatty tumor under the skin, or a cyst. These are usually not harmful but can get bigger over time.
Another possibility is a mammary tumor, which can be more serious, especially in unspayed female dogs, older dogs, or certain breeds that are predisposed to this condition. It's essential to keep an eye on the growth for any changes in size, shape, or color and note any signs of discomfort in your dog, such as licking at the area, or changes in appetite or behavior.
At home, you can monitor the growth and make sure the area stays clean, but avoid putting any creams or ointments on it unless advised by a vet. If you notice the growth spreading rapidly, bleeding, or if your dog seems to be in pain, it's time to consult a vet as soon as possible.
I recommend booking a video consult with one of our veterinarians through Dial A Vet to get a more personalized assessment. They can help you determine the best next steps for your furry friend.
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