Something weird just happened with Max, and I'm kind of freaking out. He's my three-year-old Golden Retriever, and I've never seen anything like this before. This morning, while giving him his daily belly rub — our little ritual before I head to work — I noticed a few swollen bumps under his fur. They're scattered around, and at first, I thought maybe he got into something outside. It's not like he’s been acting any different or seems to be in pain, but seeing those easily caught me off guard. Has anyone dealt with this kind of thing before? Could it be some kind of allergy, or do I need to rush to the vet? I just don't want to overreact or, worse, ignore something serious. Any advice would be amazing!
Thanks for reaching out! I can understand why you’re concerned about your dog’s swollen hair follicles. This condition, often referred to as folliculitis, can occur for several reasons. Common causes include bacterial infections, parasites like fleas or mites, fungal infections, or even allergies. Sometimes, irritation or trauma from grooming can also lead to swelling.
At home, you can help your dog by regularly cleaning the affected area with a mild, pet-safe antiseptic solution. Make sure the area stays clean and dry. Keeping your dog well-groomed can also prevent further irritation, but be gentle to avoid causing more discomfort.
Watch for signs that may indicate a more serious issue. If the swelling doesn't improve after a few days, or if you notice pus, increased redness, your dog is excessively itching, or there's a bad odor, it's best to get it checked out. Also, monitor if your dog seems to be in pain or if there's any general lethargy.
Appreciate the question — let's ensure your pup gets the care he needs! I'd recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet for a closer look and tailored advice. They can help determine the underlying cause and guide you on the best treatment approach.
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