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My adopted dog has a lump near her spay tattoo. What could it be?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | spayed | 4 months and 5 days old | 21 lbs

I adopted my dog from the shelter where she was spayed. When I got her I noticed around her tattoo is a long lump. Its still there but she's grown so it's less noticeable. It doesn't seem to affect her in any way but I'm still worried as to what it is.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on January 19th, 2018

I recommend contacting the shelter vet to have this assessed - it may be simply a sensitivity reaction to the stitches/tattoo ink or could possibly be related to poor healing, a mild hernia or abscess in the wound.It is a good sign that she is otherwise well and although not an emergency situation the earlier this is assessed and corrected if necessary the better chance of a full resolution

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    Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 28th, 2019

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. If she was spayed within the last month, I would be concerned for an incision site infection or suture reaction. If she was spayed as a puppy, I am more concerned for trauma, spider/other bug bite, skin infection, or even cancer (though she is pretty young for that). Either way, I'd bring her into the vet sooner rather than later to have him or her look at and feel that area. Best wishes to you and Dyphanl!

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