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My dog's spay incision is red and scabby after a week. Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | English Mastiff | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 150 lbs

Lina had a spay/gastropexy one week ago. The incision today looks more red/scabby. Just making sure this is normal. The photos are in order of earliest to present

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2 Answers

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 19th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Lina. Unfortunately only one picture is attached, and I think it may be the earliest picture given your description in the question. If the incision looks more red and scabby, that suggests infection. I would have her seen by a vet first thing in the morning to get it checked out to be safe. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 16th, 2017

    You can see some scabbing around an incision as it heals, and there can be some redness as well. It's good that the area on Lola's face isn't warm to the touch and isn't swollen, and I would keep an eye on it for now as long as she is eating and drinking normally, and behaving normally. Should the redness still be present in another 24-48 hours, I would have her seen by a vet just to be safe.

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