Large black lump on dog’s lip started peeling

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.

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

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

Thanks again,

Roderick

Is it ok to cut it off by using a razor blade ourselfs.

Hi, i'm guessing from your comment that your dog has a similar problem. If I were you I'd wait to hear back from the professionals, but I think it should be obvious that cutting something like this off with any type of blade would be extremely risky, not to mention extremely painful for your dog - most likely resulting in a lot of blood loss! So please do not do that, instead refer to the above information, or take your dog to a vet.

April 5, 2014

Dear Anonymous,
Roderick gave you the same advice that I would have given.

And, thanks for your question. I'm happy to help, but we only accept new questions from subscribers (the original question above was from, Roderick, a subscriber).
Please click here to sign up and submit your question and photos. I'll then get back to you right away at the bottom of your newly created web page.
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman