Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is my dog's spay incision red and puffy two weeks later normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Goldendoodle | Female | spayed | 2 years old | 70 lbs

Noticed our dogs spade incision looks a little red and puffy today. Her surgery was over two weeks ago on May 20th. She is a golden doodle - 2 years old. Our vet is closed till Monday I wonder if it is an emergency or it is okay to wait. She isn’t in any pain - even when we touch the area. Nothing else is off with her she seems fine.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 5th, 2021

Hello. Thanks for the very good picture. The incision does look a little puffy, but I do not see this as an emergency. I would apply a warm compress twice daily for 10 minutes & see how it looks on Monday. Even though her surgery was 2 weeks ago, the underlying muscle is still trying to heal & she may be experiencing a suture reaction. As long as there is no discharge from the incision, either bloody or clear, she should be fine, but do try to curtail her activity , especially jumping on furniture, running up & down stairs, etc. to not put more stress on the incision until you can have her seen. I do hope all is well & thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 28th, 2018

    Jill's spay incision looks far more red and inflamed than I would expect to see two weeks post-op. It is possible that she has an incisional infection, cellulitis, or a reaction to the suture used to close the incision. Yes, I do think it would be best to take her back to the vet to have it checked firsthand. Until you can take her back, be sure to keep her from licking at the incision by using an e-collar. I hope this helps and that all goes well for Jill!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 23rd, 2018

    That is not really a problem. This looks like she may have licked the stitch and now there is a little infection there.These stitches should come out now, so I suggest you take Sam back to your vet to have the stitches removed. It is likely that this then will heal by itself.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored