Has small heart murmur that a vet detected a year and a half ago. The last visit to a vet was a couple of months ago, where they measured the lump on his front right paw. I think it has gotten bigger, not sure what it could be as it doesn’t seem to be an allergic reaction to anything since he has no other symptoms and has had it for a while.
It's completely understandable to be concerned about a lump on your dog's paw, especially if it seems to be growing over time. There are several potential causes for lumps in dogs, ranging from benign conditions to more serious issues. Given that your dog has had this lump for several months and it appears to be getting bigger, it's important to monitor it closely.
Lumps can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Benign tumors such as lipomas (fatty tumors) or sebaceous cysts.
- Infections or abscesses, which might not always show other symptoms.
- Malignant tumors, which can be more serious and require prompt attention.
Since your dog has a history of a heart murmur, it's crucial to consider his overall health when evaluating any new or changing conditions. While the lump may not be causing immediate discomfort, its growth is a sign that it should be re-evaluated by a veterinarian.
In the meantime, you can:
- Monitor the lump for any changes in size, shape, or texture.
- Check for signs of discomfort such as limping, licking, or biting at the area.
- Keep a record of any changes to provide detailed information to your vet.
Given the duration and growth of the lump, I recommend scheduling a visit with your veterinarian. They may perform a fine needle aspiration or biopsy to determine the nature of the lump and decide on the best course of action. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing any potential issues effectively.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.