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My dog's arm is swollen and bruised after a blood test, what to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pomeranian | Male | neutered | 6 years and 2 months old | 13 lbs

I took my dog to the vet today. The vet did a heart worm test and I guess popped a blood vessel or something. His arm is a little swollen. What should I do? He doesn't seem like he is in any pain, but it is blue & purple.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 15th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about Koda. It sounds like there may be some bruising from the blood draw, which can occasionally happen, especially in little dogs with tiny blood bessels. If he isn't bothered by it, you can just leave the area alone and monitor it for increased swelling or pain. If he has some discomfort you can apply a cold compress/ice pack to the area for 10-15 minutes every few hours. If the area becomes more swollen or increasingly painful then notify your vet, but this would be rare.

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