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my 3 1/2 year female border collie has got a lump on her ellbow.the lump is moving under with the skin when touched, it does not seem to hurt her.it is the size of a golfball.what is it and what can I do?thnak you
Optional Information: Type of Animal: Border Collie Pet's Gender: female Pet's Age: 3 1/2 years
Hello, I am Dr. Peter a licensed Veterinarian. I would like to help. I need to ask you a few questions to be well informed and give you the best advice. There is no additional charge for information request.1- Is it on the side or the back of the elbow?2- Does the swelling feel like fluid?3- The lump is below the skin, right?4- How long has this been going on?5- Did it come on quickly?
1- on the back
2- gellie
3-yes
4- 2-3 weeks
5-slowly
What you are describing is called a "hygroma." Which is a swelling secondary joint fluid from the elbow joint. This usually happens secondary to laying the elbow on hard surfaces and damaging the joint. Treatment involves protecting the joint with pads and providing a soft surface to lay. Some vets will drain the joint, but, they tend to come back if the joint is not protected. I usually recommend to protect the elbow with pads for 4-6 weeks and they tend to regress spontaneously. If they don't then, we consider surgery. If you follow the link below it will show you the types of pads you can buy. http://www.dogleggs.com/files/Adjustable.cfmHope the above helps, if you have additional questions I will be glad to answer them. Dr. Peter
Experience: 12 years of small animal internal medicine, surgery and preventive medicine.