Hair follicle cyst out of control.

Milli's headshot courtesy of Teresa Crawford

After 4 months the growth
measured 5 inches

Dogs get lumps and bumps. Labradors are one of the many breeds that tend to get a lot of lumps, cysts and tumors.  I noticed a small cyst on my dog when it was less then a centimeter wide. At the veterinarian's office her tiny lump was tested and came back confirmed as a benign hair follicle cyst. 

 At this point the cyst was small. The doctor told us to  leave it alone. It did not bother her and it was not noticeable.  Although several times over a four month period we returned to his office and checked as this lump grew exponentially.  Surgery is not always the first and best option. Putting a dog through surgery is serious for the pet and can be expensive for the pet's people.

Healing after surgery. 

Yet, by waiting so long we had put our dog in the predicament of having surgery with a long healing process.  As a result of waiting this cyst grew to five inches in diameter and protruded on her back like a hunchback of Nortre Dame.  

When the lump became large we received many concerned inquiries from our neighbors and friends.   We had no idea this would grow out of control as we told our neighbors and ourselves. By the end of month four we were scheduling surgery and trying to get a first available appointment.  The lesson I learned is that depending on your financial circumstances, you and your vet need to weigh the pros and cons of performing surgery before the cyst becomes overwhelming for you, your pocketbook and your pet. 

For more information watch  Pet 360's video with Dr. Jodie Gruenstern DVM

BTW...Milli healed nicely with a long scar.  No current lumps. Her person checks all the time.