abscess in my dog

Question
Could something happen at the groomers to cause an abscess on my dog's neck.?  This is the second time it has happened in the same place.  I had to take to the vet the first time to drain it and could not think what happened.  Two days ago he was groomed and this morning I felt the lump in the same place.  I have washed and put on antibiotic and I plan to watch carefully.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Patricia,
I have not heard of a dog getting an abscess solely from being groomed. However, if your dog has an over-invasion of staph, a small nick with a clipper blade or bristle from a brush could allow staph to enter the body (staph is present on normal skin), thus causing an abscess. I don't want to give medical advice but here is an informative link about abscesses.

http://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/skin/c_dg_abscessation

That you mentioned he got an abscess in the exact same area, makes me think it was not completely cleared up with antibiotics and the grooming loop around his neck may have exacerbated the dormant infection.

Thanks,
Becca

(update) As an aside, if your dog seems particularly itchy when he returns from the groomer, he may scratch a small open area on his neck -- enough for staph to enter -- with his nails. If you notice this, I suggest he be bathed with hypoallergenic, fragrance-free shampoo. If they use conditioner, the same ingredient content should apply. Also, if they put bows or bandanas around his neck, he may feel irritated and scratch around his collar.