pekingese lip sore

Question
I have a 5 year old male, neutered pekingese that has developed a sore on the right side of his lower lip near the corner of his lip---it looks a little swollen and redish and there is some sort of discharge because it will develop a scab on it---he doesn't seem to be in pain so I wanted to know if you had any ideas on what it may be and if we need to rush him into the vet---thanks for your advice---

Answer
Hi Eric,

Any new lump is worthy of examination by your veterinarian. Lumps can have many origins, including wounds, infections, blisters, tumors gingivitis, impacted salivary glands, etc.

In general, if the lump is not growing over the course of a week, does not bother the dog, is not sore to the touch, and is not surrounded by inflammation, it is not likely to be a problem. A close look and feel can rule in or out many of the possible causes. If your veterinarian is concerned, a fine needle aspiration can remove cells that can be examined microscopically.

There is a condition called "lip fold pyoderma".  This is infection in folds of the lip that usually occurs on the lower lips, often right at the point that the upper canine tooth touches the skin of the lower lip when the mouth is closed.

You can try using a chlorhexidine oral solution (such as Chlorhexiderm Otic Flush, Hexoral Rinse or Novalsan Solution) or use hydrogen peroxide twice a day to control the infection.

If it doesn't seem as though it's getting better after 2-3 days, then your best course of action would be to see your veterinarian. Antibiotics may be needed.

Best of luck,
Patti