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My dog's spay incision is red and open. Should I call the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog's spay incision opened up a tiny bit, and there is some redness around the area. Should I take her to the vet or let her heal?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura E. McRae

Veterinary Technician

Published on March 12th, 2015

I recommend taking her back to your veterinarian for a post-surgical suture check. Your vet can determine if it is safe to leave the [incision](https://www.petcoach.co/article/incisions-and-healing-in-animals) open or if it will need to be reclosed. Your veterinarian may also prescribe antibiotics (if your dog is not already taking them) to prevent infection. If your dog is opening up the incision by licking or biting at the sutures, your vet may also send her home with an e-collar (cone).

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31Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Vanessa Yeager DVM MPH

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 15th, 2017

    Hi and thanks for your question. It is hard to say if this is going to be okay without seeing the incision site first. If it is open at all, this may need to be addressed by a veterinarian as soon as possible to prevent the site from dehiscing further and prevent infection. I would also place a cone around Kat's head you can buy at your local Pet Supplies Store to prevent Kat from irritating the incision. I'd say be sure to keep it wrapped up as much as possible until you can see a veterinarian. Best of luck to you and Kat! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 3rd, 2019

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It’s not an emergency usually, but I would take her back in first thing tomorrow to have it checked out. The skin opening a little is no big deal but a doctor or skilled nurse will want to feel the incision to make sure the abdominal wall stitches are in tact. This is the most important part. (If THOSE stitches come out, intestines start coming out too.) If it’s just the skin, they’re likely to swab it with an antiseptic and place a staple or apply a little skin glue. If she has a cone of shame, she definitely needs to wear it at all times to prevent her from licking/biting and worsening the issue. Best wishes to you and Chloe.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 15th, 2020

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Jojo. I recommend that she sees a veterinarian if possible. She may need a medication as it does appear to have opened up a bit. In the meantime, keep her quiet and make sure she wears an E-collar. I hope this information helps!

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