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Is the red spot on my spayed dog's incision from e-collar or infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Setter | Male | neutered | 9 months and 26 days old | 40 lbs

My 8 month old English Springer, who was spayed 4 days ago, now has a pink /red spot that is 2 inches wide. Could this be from her e collar, scratching or an infection?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 5th, 2017

I am concerned that it looks like bruising, and that there appears to be a large scab over the incision. Neither of these things are particularly uncommon, but both warrant an exam by a veterinarian to ensure that there is no infection, fluid pockets, or bleeding that could occur after any surgery. Also, make sure that Sandy wears her e-collar at all times to prevent licking as this could make the possible issues even worse.

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 31st, 2018

    Do not touch her wound. It looks a bit swollen, and if the skin around it happens to turn red and more swollen, I would take Ruby back to the vet next week for a recheck, As long as she cannot reach the incision and lick it or scratch it, she should be ok. Do not remove her e-collar as she will immediately get busy with the incision which can cause an infection.

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