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My dog's spay incision looks bad a week later. Did she lick stitches?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Bluetick Coonhound | Female | spayed | 9 months and 20 days old | 39 lbs

Does my dogs spay look okay? It's been a week I don't know if she licked the stitches out! Help?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 14th, 2017

Unfortunately there is no way to share photos on the forum, so without seeing a picture of Blue Bell's incision, I can't say if it looks ok or not. You can request a consult with me where you can share as many photos as you'd like and get more in-depth help.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on January 4th, 2018

    Yes, I agree that her incision is concerning. Do you have a cone for her? If not then I would put a teeshirt on her tonight to keep her from licking it open. She absolutely needs to see a veterinarian tomorrow. But her mouth has to stay off of it. If she chews the body wall layer open then she should lose her intestinal tract out of the incision which is Catastrophic and often fatal. Do not let her do that. She may need to have that area stapled. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

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    Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 29th, 2018

    I would go ahead and have this checked out. This is not an emergency but certainly as soon as the vet can see you. (No later than tomorrow). If Luna is not wearing an E-collar at all times, she needs one immediately (they can be found at most pet stores). It could be that she has been licking/chewing at the site (if she hasn’t been in a cone). It could also be a skin infection or suture reaction. Either way, your vet needs to make sure that the deeper level of stitches is still in tact and will likely prescribe some antibiotics. S/he may also staple or partially staple the incision. Best of luck to you and Luna!

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