Vets and Vaccinations: What You Need to Know

One condition your dog may develop that should have you seek veterinary intervention as soon as possible is the onset of hematomas. Hematomas are commonly found under your dog's earflaps but these are not the only places that they can form. In fact, hematomas can occur on any part of their body, and it is essential to see a vet immediately since your dog could end up needing veterinary surgery. If you have never had to deal with this medical problem, read on for all you need to know about hematomas and your dog so you can be aware of what to expect.

What leads to hematomas in canines?

One reason why your dog may be vulnerable to a hematoma is they can be caused by irritation. The irritation causes your dog to scratch a particular part of their body excessively, and this is what subsequently causes blood vessels to rupture and blisters to form. You should also note that the irritation is usually a sign of an underlying issue that is yet to be diagnosed. If you ignore the scratching, it is highly likely that the condition will worsen. The worse it becomes, the less likely that the blisters will heal, and this exposes your dog to infections that can be life-threatening. Unfortunately, when the blisters are left unchecked there is the likelihood of the hematomas developing in close proximity to the internal organs of the pet, which can compromise their functionality.

What symptoms accompany hematomas?

As mentioned above, the first sign of the development of a hematoma is excessive scratching by your pet. However, this is not the only indicator to be wary of. Once your pet develops a hematoma, the area in question will possibly be discoloured and swollen. Your dog may also be sensitive to any touch, even gentle ones, and will avoid being touched on the affected area. If your dog has developed an infection due to the hematoma, they may develop incontinence, seizures and could even slip into a coma. To prevent the condition from becoming fatal, it is critical to visit your local vet the moment you notice that something is off.

How are hematomas treated?

The course of treatment used for a hematoma will deponent on the severity of the condition. For instance, if the hematoma is in its early stages, the vet may simply drain blood from it and bandage it up. However, if the hematoma is characterised by massive blisters and has spread internally, surgery will be imperative. Your vet will also discern the primary cause of the itching and prescribe medication to address the underlying problem and for pain management after surgical intervention.