My dog has a lump near his toenail for a week. Is it an infection?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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  Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 15th, 2020

  That looks like a growth. Any suspicious lumps should be examined by the vet. The vet can perform a test called a fine needle aspirate on it. To do this, the vet sticks a small needle into the lump to get a sample of its cells, and examines the cells on a slide under a microscope. It's usually painless to the animal, and relatively quick to perform. Once the cause of the lump is diagnosed, the vet can discuss treatment options if needed. Give Scout's vet a call in the morning to make her an appointment.

  

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  Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

  Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

  Published on August 5th, 2017

  Possible causes for what you describe include cancer, bacterial infection, fungal infections, or trauma to the nail bed. I recommend that Bentley see a vet as soon as possible. He may need x-rays to look at the bone near the nail or cytology to look at the cells of the nodule. If it is infectious or trauma, appropriate medications can be prescribed. If the vet is worried about cancer, they may recommend amputation of the toe.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful