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My German Shepherd's spay incision is open. Does she need stitches?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 60 lbs

I have at least a 2 year old German Shepherd. I rescued her from an abusive last owner. I was told she needed to have an emergency spay. I never got any information after I asked for it. She has been licking constantly around that area. I had just started noticing it, so I took a look. There is what looks to be like an opening. Do I need to go to the vet tomorrow to see if she needs stitches?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 24th, 2018

It does look like from the picture that Koda may have opened up her incision. She does need to see a vet first thing in the morning to see if she needs stitches. She should not be allowed to lick the incision, she could potentially open it up so much that her abdominal contents (i.e. her intestines) come out of the incision. Put an Ecollar on her and keep it on at all times to keep her from licking at it (I will put a link below on how to make one at home), and get her into a vet asap. Best of luck. http://dogsaholic.com/care/homemade-dog-cone.html

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