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My dog's neuter incision is open after licking. Is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Australian Shepherd | Male | neutered | 45 lbs

My dog licked his neuter incision. It appears to be open but not bothering him. Would this require immediate attention?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Tomasz Wnuk

Veterinarian

Published on August 7th, 2021

Hello and thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. The incision is open indeed and it will require stapling or re-suturing. A visit at your local vets or emergency service is required as this wound should not be left like this till Monday. If you clean the wound with antiseptic skin solution (ideally containing 4% chlorhexidine, for example Hibiclens) and make sure Chase does not lick the incision, you can wait and see your local vets tomorrow. Alternatively, you should try and get Chase seen at your local 24/7 vets this evening.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 24th, 2018

    I am a little worried about the bleeding. The dark area is likely an internal stitch. So far it just looks like the skin is irritated and opened just a little, If it stays this way and does not open up any further, and stopped bleeding, You can wait until tomorrow to take your dog back to the vet for a recheck. If the incision is opening up further, does not stop bleeding or tissue happens to protrude, then an immediate visit to a veterinarian or emergency room is in order. Put on the e-collar and NEVER take it off. Your dog is quite capable of eating wearing the collar, especially when you put the food on a little pedestal.

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    11Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 7th, 2018

    There is a possibility that there is irritation from one of the inside sutures or a knot irritating. It was a good idea to put the e-collar back on and I would leave it on Henry until the suture has healed again. If it starts looking angry, starts swelling or oozing pus, you should take Henry back to your vet for a recheck.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on November 5th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It does not look concerning at least based on this picture. However, it is very difficult to see that just based on one image without an examination. If there is no opening of the incision and there is no foul odor or discharge coming from it, he will likely be fine. Good luck and have a good night!

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