Large black lump on dog's lip started peeling

by Roderick
(UK)

Our 7 year old Jack Russell Terrier named Milo has had a large black lump on his upper lip for just over a year. We assumed it was a kind of skin-tag and hoped it would eventually go away by itself.

Unfortunately a few days ago we noticed that the outside of the lump has started to peel away/open-up to reveal redness underneath. It seems painful to the touch as he pulls away when we go near it. We are worried that it might be more serious than we had first thought. Apart from this, he's completely healthy.

He gets extremely excited over the camera, but we managed to hold him still long enough to take some pictures of the lump.

Looking forward to any advice.

Comments for
Large black lump on dog's lip started peeling

Click here to add your own comments

My Online Vet Response for: Large black lump on dog's lip started peeling
by: Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

Hi Roderick,
The 'lump' on Milo's upper lip appears to be benign. If it has been there for one year, and this is as big as it has grown, I do not consider it to be a malignant growth.

It seems that at this point, Milo may have rubbed it against something to cause it to 'open' up, OR the blood supply to it has become compromised as the 'stem' or 'stalk' that serves as an attachment is becoming smaller.

I think it may be ready to fall off! If Milo has rubbed it against something, it may be mildly infected, and that is why it is tender. OR, if it is becoming 'necrotic' from lack of blood supply it would also be tender.

Either way, I do not think Milo will let you apply anything topical to the lump, and if he did, he would probably lick it off immediately.

I would do nothing for the next 2 weeks.

Although if he does knock it off and it starts bleeding, you may need to apply a styptic powder to it (the same powder used to stop toenails from bleeding if you cut one too short).

If it is infected, a homeopathic remedy called Silicea in 6c or 12c potency would be good. Give one pellet two to three times daily by mouth for 3-4 days. This might help decrease the tenderness.

Or if it is growing, discharging, or NEW lumps are appearing, then a holistic veterinarian might be best to consult that can see Milo in 'person'.

Under NO circumstances should you give Milo a vaccination! In fact, a vaccine one year ago may have triggered the appearance of this lump. If future vaccinations are needed, consult with a holistic veterinarian to write an exemption form.

Click here to find a holistic veterinarian in your area. Another resource for vets knowledgeable in homeopathy is AVH.org.

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the 'click here to add your own comments' link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

P.S. If you've found this service or our web site helpful, please "Like" us by clicking the like button at the top of the left margin. Thank you!

Related Pages:
- Dog Warts,
- Dog Skin Conditions,
- Ask a Vet Online Library - Dog Warts, Cysts and Strange Growths Section

DISCLAIMER: This educational advice is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

Thank you
by: Roderick

Thank you very much for the excellent advice. I'll let you know how things go.

Thanks again,

Roderick

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Ask a Vet Online via My Online Vet (SUBSCRIPTION REQUIRED FOR NEW QUESTIONS)

Want to ask our veterinarians a question but haven't subscribed to My Online Vet? Click here to learn how or click here to go back to the Ask a Vet Online Library of questions.

Want monthly "News You Can Use" and important Organic Pet Digest new content updates? Click here to sign up for our FREE Dog Care Monthly newsletter.

Was this page helpful? If so, please tell your friends about it with a Facebook like or via Twitter, Pinterest, email or good old fashioned word of mouth. Thank you for supporting our efforts!

For additional research, search for your topic...

Also see...

OPD's Site Map of Dog Care Topics

Disclaimers: The information contained in this web site is provided for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as nor should be relied upon as medical advice. Rather, it is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a pet owner/site visitor and his/her local veterinarian(s). Before you use any of the information provided in the site, you should seek the advice of a qualified professional.

In the spirit of full disclosure, we wanted to let you know that we proudly support this website through advertising and affiliate marketing. In other words, when you click on a link that takes you outside of this website, we often earn a small commission. These small commissions allow us to keep the site up and running and to continue offering it completely free of charge to you. Rest assured that all content, recommendations and advice are created before, and are independent of, any sponsorship or affiliate relationship. Click here for more info.