When you first notice a lump on your dog, your first instinct is to panic. Is it cancer? The truth is, it's most likely not cancer. It's not uncommon for dogs to develop lumps, bumps, and tumors. Fortunately, most of these bumps are not cancerous in the least. In fact, many types of lumps and bumps do not need to be removed at all. They can remain as long as they're not infected or interfering with your dog's range of motion. Following are three types of lumps and bumps you shouldn't have removed if there are no other complications.
Lipoma
Also called a fatty tumor, lipoma is an accumulation of fat cells in a concentrated area. Lipomas can grow anywhere on your dog's body. They can be large or small. Lipomas usually feel soft, and you can squeeze them without causing your dog pain. They are also moveable, meaning you can feel the skin move over it when you push it to the side.
Lipomas can continue to grow over a period of time, or they can stop growing and remain the same size. They are not painful, and they do not need to be removed. However, if your dog has a fatty tumor that makes it difficult for them to move, your vet may consider removal.
Gland Adenoma
Found on or around the eyelid, a meibomian gland adenoma is a cyst that forms in the sebaceous glands found around the eye. This lump is benign and will not hurt your dog unless it gets big enough to affect their vision. When these are removed, the surgeon has to remove the entire meibomian gland to ensure that the cyst won't grow back. This gland is responsible for producing oil that protects the eye.
Sebaceous Adenoma
Sebaceous adenomas are benign tumors that are kind of like warts within the skin. These tumors occur when the sebaceous glands within the skin start producing too much oil. When this occurs, the gland can become enlarged. These lumps do contain oil in them, so you may notice fluid coming out when you squeeze them. They may also have hair growing out of the center. Again, these lumps are usually not a problem.
There are numerous types of lumps and bumps that your dog can develop over time. Fortunately, most of them will not harm your dog. In fact, many of them, like the ones mentioned above, don't require any treatment at all.
Talk to a professional, such as one at After Hours Veterinary Emergency Clinic Inc, for more information.
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