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My dog's spay incision has a red raised area. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 10 months and 12 days old | 20 lbs

Millie was spayed 10/22. No complications, no changes in behavior or eatings/bowel habits. Post-op directions followed. Noticed red, raised area in the middle of her well healed incision today. Doesn't seem to bother her. Does she need the ER vet or can my antibacterial dressing get me to Monday (to my vet office)?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 2nd, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Millie. I see what you mean about the swelling, and while it’s concerning, I don’t think it requires an ER visit. As long as it doesn’t open up, bother her, her incision stays closed, and/or there’s no infection, it can wait until Monday. I hope this helps.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on July 1st, 2019

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. This is a good question. If Harper is acting normally, eating and drinking, isn’t lethargic, there is no pus-like or excessive bloody discharge from the incision site, and it’s not bothering her, you can wait until tomorrow morning to see the vet. If she stops eating and drinking, starts vomiting, is very lethargic, you see redness, or the discharge I mentioned above, then I would take her into an ER vet now. I hope this helps!

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