My Shih Tzu was neutered. Why is his incision irritated and licked?

Poor pup! That area is very inflamed and may be infected. Keep the dogs separated and make sure your dog wears his elizabethan collar at all times. Get him seen by his veterinarian within the next 24 hours as he may need antibiotics. Make sure to keep him from any activity as well such as running or jumping. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

This presentation could be due to a trauma or localized spot of skin infection. Disinfection may be started at home with very diluted hibiscrub or betadine or salted water baths. Buster collar may be useful as well to avoid any licking (if any). A check up, appropriate disinfection and possibly antibiotics (oral, topical or in a shampoo formulation) are needed to solve the problem if the redness does not improve in the next 4 days.

It looks like it could be an area of minor infection or irritation. Place the e-collar (cone) back on him for a few more days. Keep the area clean and dry. This may enough to allow for healing. If not, gently clean the area with diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens). Dry it thoroughly afterwards. A dab of a triple antibiotic ointment can be applied. Aloe can be used as long as the e-collar is in place. If he were to lick it and ingest the aloe vera gel, it could cause stomach upset.

From the pictures, it appears like the incision is healing well. The red dots are likely a little irritation/bruising from clipping the area and/or the surgical instruments. I would Keep a close eye on the area and if the redness is worsening call his veterinarian. It is important to continue keeping him quiet for the next week and prevent him from licking the surgical site (using an e-collar/cone if necessary). I hope moku continues healing well!

It sounds like Panda may be having a reaction to the suture that is still under the skin. In these cases the dog typically needs to be put on an antibiotic and a steroid to help it clear up. I would recommend taking Panda back to the vet for another incision recheck and explain your concerns. This far out from surgery he should not have to wear the collar anymore unless there is an issue. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

The skin looks perfectly healed. However it will take a few months before the internal stitches have dissolved. So I would still put en e-collar on Bell as long as he attempts to lick the incision.

Poor Shiloh, I see what you mean about the sore. Yes, this could be due to the fleas. I would put a cone on him to keep him from licking the area. You can get one at a pet store if you don't already have one. Keep an eye on the sore and if it gets worse or appears infected, then I would have him seen by a vet. I hope this helps!