Is my dog’s neuter incision infected?

Question

It has been exactly 7 days since my dog got neutered. I actually took him to the emergency vet on the 3rd or 4th day because I thought he had reopened the incision. I got confirmation from the technician that the wound was not reopening.
However, I’m not sure what the wound SHOULD look like at this point and if it is okay to take the e-collar off like I had planned?

Elmy · Answer

Sorry but the picture quality is too bad to see what's going on, but the wound does not look reopened.
If the black substance is a scab, it's ok for the 7th day. However, if the skin itself is turning blue or black, your vet needs to have a look again.
The red edge of the incision looks slightly inflamed, which is no reason to panic. If the red spreads out, please contact your vet again. Keep in mind that fresh, healing skin looks reddish pink as well.
It's not uncommon for blood blisters to form at the incision, even several weeks after the operation when the skin looks like it's already healed. This is usually caused by suture material that doesn't dissolve quick enough (like knots).
Please see related question 1 and related question 2.
The removal of the E-collar depends on how much damage your dog can do to himself. If the stitches need to be removed, the collar should only come off after that is done. If the stitches are resorbed by the body, you can remove the collar, but keep an eye on your dog. If he licks or bites at the wound, you must put the collar back on.
As a general note: I'm surprised the vet didn't shave away more fur around the incision, but the picture could be misleading.

Is my dog’s neuter incision infected?

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