Is It Safe to Tie Off a Cyst at Home?
by sally
(seattle)
Reader Question
my neighbors dog had a cyst. and although he knows he is supposed to take his dog into the vet to have it removed he cant afford it and was worried so he tied a rubber around it and is worried there is no infection but the thing is bigger and smells and rotting and hopes it will fall off...the surrounding tissue looks fine what should he look for and can he give his dog some advil incase she is in pain
Answer from Our Team
Please stop. Tying off a lump at home can cause tissue death and serious infection, and a smell of rotting means that's probably already happening. The lump could also be a tumor that won't come off cleanly. The dog needs a vet promptly.
Do not give Advil (ibuprofen) or other human pain relievers; they can cause stomach ulcers and kidney failure in dogs. If cost is a worry, ask your vet about a payment plan, or look for a low-cost clinic, humane society clinic or veterinary school near you.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
