Dog with a skin tag?

Question

My seven year old (estimated since he was adopted from the shelter) mix breed dog has a small piece of skin on his lip. Its like a skin tag that some people get on there necks or backs. Its the same color as his lip and only about 2mm long. It obviously doesn't bother him. Its been there for about 6 months and hasn't changed at all.

Could I or should I have it removed?

What causes them?

Thank you!

Answer 1

Your right in that dogs can get "skin tags" or non-malignant growths. These types of growths are usually just a cosmetic issue, however, in some instances they can grow near the eye, potentially causing problems, in which case it should be surgically removed by  your veterinarian.

You should take your dog to the vet to make sure that it is indeed a benign skin growth and not something more serious, which your vet should be able to determine simply by examing the growth. If it looks suspicious, or abnormal he or she may recommend a biopsy.

If it determined to be just a "skin tag" that is not posing any problems to your pet, then ultimately the decision to have it removed is up to you. Remember, if you opt for cosmetic surgery, that anesthesia, although much safer than years past, is still taking a risk as complications can and do occur. Add to that the stress from the procedure itself and it may not be the best option for your friend if he is not bothered by it.  

Answer 2

Only a vet can tell you that. Dogs do get skin tags - my vet just cuts them off with a pair of scissors but I don't advise you do that since you don't know for sure what it is. Just pop him to the vet, if it's not serious & not bothering him, he'll probably just live with it.