My dog was spayed 4 days ago and her vet is closed for the next week (on vacation). They failed to mention that before operating on my pup. Her incision looked fine this morning, but now I'm noticing some discharge. Does this appear to be infected? Is it safe to but antiobiotic ointment on the incision? She seems to be in pain still especially if you get anywhere near the incision. Any advice would be great... Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 9 months and 18 days old | 9 lbs

Hi there! No picture came through with your question. If you re-submit with an in-focus picture of her incision, I will be more than happy to take a look. If the discharge is a translucent red color and in small amounts, it could be a normal part of the healing process. If the discharge is thick, green/yellow, or milky, that may indicate an infection that would require a course of oral antibiotics to treat. In the mean time, please do not put anything on the incision. Creams and ointments will trap bacteria underneath them and it is better to leave the area open to the air. If she is licking or bothering the incision, please restrain her from doing so by using a cone collar, inflatable tube collar, or shirt. I hope this helps! Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This looks like an infection at the incision site. This does warrant a visit to your veterinarian. They are likely going to clean it and start antibiotics. This usually responds well to therapy but does need to be treated. Good luck and have a good night!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The incision does look irritated but not infected. You can apply a warm compress to the incision 2-3 times per day until you can get her to the vet. If the discharge looks thicker or white/yellow/green, then its infected. Good luck and kisses to Millie!