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Dog nipple lump: Is surgery safe for a senior dog with a heart murmur?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 8 years old | 95 lbs

Dahlia does not stay outside much. How can it from the sun. It is down by her nipple. I sent photos. Small round bloody crusty ball. Vet wants to cut it off She is 8 now with a slightl heart murmur. Mostly 1 and two. She wants to you something mild just scared

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 25th, 2019

It sounds as if your vet is concerned that your dog has a malignant tumor, most likely squamous cell carcinoma. If there is suspicion about the malignancy of a tumor the best course of action is to have it removed. I can understand your concerns about Dahlia undergoing surgery but it would be safer and easier to remove it now, while it is smaller, then it would be if it was left to continue to grow. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

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