Papillomas, or warts, are small raised bumps or growths on your dog’s skin. The growths can be painful, particularly if they grow on his feet. Papillomas can go away without treatment in some cases, but a visit to your veterinarian might be necessary if the growths linger more than a few months.
About Papillomas
Warts are caused by the papilloma virus. The virus invades your dog’s body through small breaks in the skin, such as cuts, scratches, bites or rashes. A healthy pet can carry the virus for some time with no symptoms.
Appearance
Canine papillomas commonly appear on your dog’s feet, in his mouth, or on his eyelids, lips or muzzle, although they also can appear on other parts of the body. The warts are usually hard and round, and often look a little like a tiny head of cauliflower. Other warts might appear flat and scaly.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your veterinarian might recommend wart removal if a wart causes pain or discomfort, bleeds or is infected, or if your dog constantly chews or licks the wart. Warts are removed surgically or by application of a freezing solution.
References
Writer Bio
Working at a humane society allowed Jill Leviticus to combine her business management experience with her love of animals. Leviticus has a journalism degree from Lock Haven University, has written for Nonprofit Management Report, Volunteer Management Report and Healthy Pet, and has worked in the healthcare field.