Hi

My friends Staffie bitch has a skin tag in the middle of her chest. Only a few weeks ago, this was checked over by the vet who said that it was nothing to worry about and to keep an eye on it and to take her back if it changed at all. Ellie is approximately 8 years old (in case that helps ;) )

Today, the 'tag' that previously was like empty hanging skin is swollen and red, like it has filled up with something but is quite solid to touch. It doesnt seem to be worrying her at all and she will let you touch it. It is possible that she has caught it on something as its quite large and hangs anyway but we cant see any cuts or scrapes anywhere.

Has anyone had any similar experiences with skin tags or have any idea why this may have happened?

She will of course be going to the vets asap but until then we would be greatful for your thoughts.

Many Thanks
Caroline

My staffie got skin tags around this age, one of which was removed when he was under GA for something else, as it hug down and was in danger of getting caught on something.  He also developed a couple of years before he passed away, a small lump which started as a small spot but grew to about 1cm across right in the middle of his chest.  I like your friend was very concerned about this, which my vet insisted was just a fatty lump however he had also told me not to worry about the spot on his nose, which I asked to be removed while he was under GA for an eye op.  This so called not to worry about lump which he had for two years turned out to be malignant!  I am only glad I insisted on having it removed when I did.  If her vet is not 100% sure what this lump is, I would advise her to insist a test is done to prove whether is is harmless or not.  If she is anything like me, even though the vet said the lump on my dogs nose was nothing to worry about, I still did which is why I got it removed and glad I did.  I'm not trying to frighten you, but tell your friend to keep a very close eye on it and if she's not happy get it removed.

Julie

Thanks Julie

I understand youre not trying to scare me so dont worry about that. Thanks for your reply.

Ellie managed to be seen by the vet this evening who still wasnt concerned as she said it looks like she has caught it on something and its just swollen. However, she is booked in to have it removed next Monday and it will be sent off for tests so we will know more when the results are in.

Thanks again!