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My dog's spay incision is red, oozy, and opening. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund miniature | Female | spayed | 2 years and 2 months old | 12 lbs

My dog got spayed last Monday the 19th and her outer incision was glued together. It now seems to be a little red, oozy, and starting to open. Do I need to take her in ASAP or will it still heal okay just need to wait longer?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on March 27th, 2018

The wound is definitely a little inflamed, i would recommend a post op check as soon as possible with the operating vet just to double check. A surgical wound would be expected to be almost fully healed by 7-10 days

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 21st, 2017

    This incision definitely looks abnormal. It should not be open or red and should not have swelling around it. I would be suspicious of your dog licking at her site just based on this picture. You should continue to keep this incision clean and dry, prevent on your from looking at it and she needs to be seen by her veterinarian as soon as possible. She may need stitches in her schedule to close or may have to heal on its own with medication.

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 13th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The incision doesn’t look infected. It is a bit red which can be from the stitches being tight or from licking. Keep her quiet: no running, jumping, playing with other dogs, leash walks only. Use an E-collar if licking. I would watch the incision and as long as she is feeling fine I think you are okay. Good luck!

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 2nd, 2019

    This should heal in time. As long as it does not get bigger or oozes pus or swells, there should be no problem. Sometimes it takes a few weeks to heal by second intention. As long as she does not bother (lick) the wound, there should be no problem.

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