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Dog has soft lump on abdomen after ultrasound. When to see vet?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chesapeake Bay Retriever | Male | neutered | 11 years and 5 months old | 86 lbs

Hello I am concerned with a large soft lump that has appeared on my dogs left side of his abdomen. 11 yr Chesapeake bay retriever. He had an ultrasound 2 weeks ago and it is where they shaved his belly. He has high liver enzymes and is having liver failure. I can barely get him to eat anything, but he drinks a lot of water. I called my emergency vet and they said I could bring him in, but I’m not sure if I should wait and bring him tomorrow to my regular vet. Can you tell me what his may be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Kevin Sanada, DVM

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 9, 2017

A sudden swelling like this is likely to be a fluid swelling. It's most likely a serum cyst, but could also be due to an infection.

It's possible that they may have done a needle aspirate, or biopsy of the liver when they did the ultrasound. If that was the case, then this could be related to that procedure.

If Cosmo is appearing (activity, eating/drinking habits) worse now than he was before, then it may be best to take him to the emergency vet. If not, then I think it would be best to take him for a recheck by your regular vet, because they will know more about his current condition.

I hope that helps and Cosmo gets better soon.
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