Pet owners are being encouraged get any unusual lumps and bumps checked out.

Congleton Veterinary Centre recently treated seven-year-old cocker spaniel Dora for an infected cyst on her tail.

If left untreated, there was a 'very real possibility' that Dora's tail would have needed to have been amputated.

With this case in mind, clinical director Struan Henderson is urging owners not to leave anything to chance.

He said: "Cysts can often be dormant and non-painful, but if they burst then the situation is a lot worse - painful, infected, skin sloughing, to name but a few.

"Therefore, early diagnosis is the key so that the appropriate advice can be given, which might depend on the location of the cyst.

"This applies to other lumps as well. Some are easier to remove than others, especially when skin elasticity is limited, such as on the tail and lower limbs and paws.

"So, it's always better to check with a vet, so that the most appropriate advice and plan can be given.

"Unfortunately, there isn't a 'one size fits all' approach, and instead it is done on an individual case by case basis."

WARNING - Graphic images ahead

Dora's cyst started small and dormant.

However, it took a turn for the worst, becoming very swollen and sore.

Struan says this was most likely due to the capsule rupturing and her body reacting to its keratin contents.

After a nasty wound opened up, Dora required daily dressing changes for almost three weeks.

Struan said: "Fortunately the wound healed amazingly well.

"She's now bandage free and her tail continues to wag – as it has throughout the process!"

Until March 1, Congleton Veterinary Centre is offering free lump and bump checks.

If surgery is indicated, they will offer a 20% discount during the offer.

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