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My dog's leg surgery wound is open. Did he pull out stitches?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Tibetan Terrier | Male | neutered | 22 lbs

My dog went in for an operation where he had several warts / cyst since they were potentially cancerous. I am not sure if the hole in his leg in the photos was stitched up or not, and I am very worried that he may have pulled his stitches out. I kept a very close eye on him, the most he ever did was lick the bottom of his paw, not near the hole, which is something he normally does. I really can't tell if that hole is supposed to be stitched up or not. I couldn't get closer, its very sensitive.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 6th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I think that area should have had stitches, so I’m assuming Buddy licked them out. It only takes a few seconds for a dog to remove them. He should be wearing an E-collar or a donut at all times. He shouldn’t lick that open area either. Clean it well with soap and water and apply a triple antibiotic ointment. It likely will heal on its own as long as he doesn’t continue to lick. I wish Buddy a speedy recovery!

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