There’s nothing quite as scary as finding a lump just under your dog’s skin. Immediately, your mind turns to the“C” word and you begin to image all sorts of horrendous scenarios. Don’t worry. Your reaction is normal, but before you start trying to figure out how you’re going to afford Fido’s chemotherapy treatments, read further.
That lump may be nothing to worry about.You Say Lump. I say Bump
Whatever you call it, most of the time that lump you discover on your pet is simply a fatty deposit that’s neither life threatening or uncomfortable. Called lipomas, these rounded bumps form just below the skin and pretty much just hang out there. They aren’t painful, but depending on where they’re located, they can end up being uncomfortable for your pet if they grow too large. Lipomas are the most commonly seen lumps on pets in the veterinarian’s office, but don’t take it for granted that what you’re seeing is a lipoma. The only way to tell for sure that the bump you just found is benign is to have it tested by a pathologist via a biopsy.
Other Lumps and Bumps on Dogs
While the most common, lipomas aren’t the only benign lumps that develop on your pet’s body. Sebaceous cysts – plugged oil glands in the skin – are another common superficial bump. Sweat, dead skin cells and dirt accumulate and plug the oil glands, which in turn develop a fluid filled cyst that eventually ruptures on its own and goes away.
Sebaceous adenomas, on the other hand, are oil glands that develop into tumors (benign tumors, that is), and are some of the most commonly biopsied lumps on dogs. The good news is, this type of tumor rarely ever causes a bit of trouble once it is surgically removed.
Treatment for Lumps and Bumps on Dogs
The main thing to do when you find a lump on your pet is to have a vet determine if it’s cancerous or not. This can only be done in a pathologist’s office. If the tests come back benign, there really isn’t much to do but keep an eye on the growth for changes. If the bump is big or in a spot that’s causing discomfort for your pet, the lump can be surgically removed.
If the growth is found to be cancerous, several treatment options do exist such as chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.
Keep in mind that most lumps and bumps on pets turn out to be nothing. Although serious, cancer is a rare occurrence, so don’t panic right away. If you find a lump on your precious Fido, make an appointment with your vet to put your mind at ease.