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Dog neuter incision bleeding and swollen on day 4. When to see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Multi-Colored Standard Poodle | Male | 1 year and 5 months old | 58 lbs

Day 4 after dog neuter and his incision is bleeding a kind of protruding in a spot. Is this okay or should I take him to emergency vet?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 5th, 2022

Thank you for the picture of Apollo's incision, it's very helpful. I agree the incision does look a bit swollen and red, and I'm concerned there is some bleeding. Please feel the skin area, and if it's warm as well, he needs to see an ER vet immediately. Otherwise, wait until the morning and take him in then. Should the area keep swelling during the night, it keeps bleeding, and/or he becomes lethargic, then rush him into an ER vet right away. I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 14th, 2018

    There is quite a lot of swelling/bruising here which is not uncommon but the damage to the wound appears minor and could be monitored overnight. Keep him confine and apply a muzzle or Elizabethan collar to prevent further injury. If blood loss increases to a steady flow he should be seen urgently

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