Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog's surgery incision opened. Will it heal naturally with meds?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Female | spayed | 6 years and 7 months old | 55 lbs

Dog had a lump removed from her shoulder last week, took her back to the vets today as the outside seemed to open when she walked but the vet has said to let it heal naturally and prescribed antibiotics painkillers and hibiscrub, is this okay and will it heal naturally??

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 21st, 2020

Hello. If the incision has opened a bit, but is not a gaping wound, then healing naturally, or by second intention, will be just fine. Otherwise, sedation may be needed to reclose the area. Your veterinarian has prescribed a good plan with what you have listed above, so try to curtail Wilma's activity as much as possible so that the incision does not open more. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 21st, 2020

    Wounds can heal by second intention if they are kept free of infection. Wilma CAN NOT lick at the lesion and her activity will need to be very restricted to prevent movement of the incision (which will delay healing). Your vet is the best person however to answer your specific questions about Wilma. I recommend to call them and discuss your concerns. They will be able to better advise about the thinking behind second intention healing and give you a timeline of what to expect. I hope this helps.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

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 guinea pig has a growing lump on its neck. Can it heal itself?
Guinea pig has a growing, hard neck lump? Worried about vet costs? A certified veterinarian advises on crucial steps for diagnosis and your pet's well-being.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a lump on their neck. What is it and what should I do?
Is your pet's lump a mystery? A licensed vet tech explains common causes like tumors or infections. Discover why a vet visit is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My mouse has a growing lump. What can I do if I can't afford a vet?
Concerned about your mouse's growing lump and vet costs? A trusted Petco veterinarian provides guidance on managing her comfort during this difficult time.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has a soft lump. How long can I wait before seeing a vet?
Discovered a soft, nickel-sized lump on your pet's chest? A certified veterinarian offers expert advice on tracking changes and when to seek professional evaluation.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
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