There are a number of reasons why a skin mass on your dog can develop.A skin mass can be caused by an infection, an accumulate of fat, or cancer.If you find a skin mass on your dog, you may be worried that it's a sign of something serious.Pay attention to your dog's symptoms and examine the skin mass at home.If your dog has a skin mass, your vet can help diagnose and treat it.
Step 1: The skin mass can be felt.
Start by using clean hands.The skin mass can be found on your dog's belly or trunk.If the mass under the skin feels soft.If this is the case, the skin mass may be a build up of fat called a lipoma, which is not life threatening.The skin mass may be a tumor if it doesn't move with your touch.Regardless of how the skin mass feels, you should get it examined by a vet to make sure it's not a tumor.The feel test isn't a definitive way to determine the skin mass.
Step 2: The size of the skin mass is important.
If the skin mass is larger than 1 cm, you should have it checked by your vet.The size of a pea is one centimeter.Take your dog to the vet if she has more than one skin mass that is the size of a pea or larger.
Step 3: The skin mass develops.
If you notice a small skin mass on your dog, keep an eye on it and pay attention to how it develops over the next month.You should bring your dog to the vet if the mass is growing or spreading.If the mass doesn't go away after a few weeks, this could be a sign of a serious medical issue.The skin mass develops in terms of feel.You should bring your dog to the vet if the skin mass starts to move under the dog's skin.
Step 4: Take the time to observe your dog's behavior.
If your dog has a skin mass that is making him uncomfortable, he may do things to make himself feel better.If you notice that your dog is licking or scratching at the lump, this could be a sign that it is painful or uncomfortable.
Step 5: The mass should be monitored for changes.
If a mass on your dog's body is something to be worried about, it will probably change in size, shape, or appearance quickly.It's a good idea to check the lump a few times per week.If you notice that a mass on your dog's body has grown in size, changed shape, or become red and irritated, then you need to see a vet right away.Taking photos of the lump and/or measuring it can help you to track any changes with more accuracy than just looking at it.Write down the diameter of the mass if you want to see if it is growing or changing.
Step 6: If your dog is sick, notice.
If your pet has a tumor, it's a good idea to look for signs of physical illness, such as vomiting or diarrhea.Your dog may show these symptoms a few days after the skin mass appears.If your dog has any of the symptoms, you should bring her to the vet.The quicker your dog is diagnosed with a skin mass, the quicker she can be treated.
Step 7: You should check your dog's stool for blood.
Blood can be found in your dog's urine or feces.After your dog goes to the bathroom to check for this symptom, you can look at her stool.You should bring your dog to the vet if you notice this issue.
Step 8: If your dog has lost appetite, please note it.
You should notice any changes in your dog's demeanor, such as a loss of appetite and low energy.A dog may not eat for a few days in a row or show little interest in her food.Your dog may be sluggish.She may not be interested in playing with you if she doesn't want to go for her usual walks.She may have a medical issue due to the skin mass and needs to be examined by your vet.
Step 9: Provide your dog's medical history.
Your vet will ask a number of questions about your dog's medical history after you bring him in.Provide detailed information on your dog's symptoms if you can answer these questions to the best of your ability.Your answers will help the vet understand your dog's condition.How long has the growth been on your dog?Is it larger or smaller over time?How fast is it growing?How many skin mass on your dog?Does your dog have any injuries or traumas?Have there been any changes to your pet?
Step 10: Your vet can do a physical exam of your dog.
Your vet will do a complete physical exam of your pup, paying special attention to the skin mass.They will be able to see the skin mass on your dog's skin.
Step 11: Allow your dog's vet to do a biopsy.
A sample of tissue is removed from a mass.The sample will be sent to the lab to find out what types of cells are present.This may be your vet's first suggestion for a mass, since a biopsy is an important part of the diagnostic process.If the diagnosis of the mass is not conclusive or if the lump is suspected to be cancer, this test may be necessary.The best option is to remove the lump and have it analyzed.A fine needle aspirate can be performed.The vet takes a few cells from the lump by putting a needle in it.If an infection is suspected, the vet will take a sample from the mass or send a small piece of tissue to be cultured.
Step 12: Discuss treatment options for your dog.
Your dog's diagnosis will determine the treatment for the skin mass.You don't need to do anything if the skin mass is benign and just a lipoma.They go away on their own.Your vet may recommend surgery to remove the lipoma if it is large and restricts your dog's movements.If the skin mass is found to be a tumor, your vet may recommend surgery to remove it as soon as possible.Smaller tumors that are removed right away will increase your dog's chances of recovery and reduce her risk of developing cancer.