What should you know about cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in dogs?

A lesion may appear as a firm lump, a crusted or ulcerated patch, a wart-like growth, or a sore that does not heal. It can occur on areas with limited hair, including the nose, eyelids, ears, lips, or belly, but a growth elsewhere may also need checking. Appearance alone cannot distinguish squamous cell carcinoma from infection, inflammation, or another tumour. A veterinarian may take cells or a tissue sample and examine nearby lymph nodes when staging is relevant.

Book a veterinary appointment for a new, persistent, bleeding, crusting, or enlarging lesion. Prevent licking or scratching if advised, keep a brief record of changes, and do not use human creams or pain medicines unless the veterinarian approves them. Depending on the site and findings, care may involve Surgical Excision or other Skin Cancer Surgery. A veterinary team will explain whether wider Tumour Removal Surgery, local treatment, or additional testing is appropriate.

Contact a veterinarian promptly if the growth bleeds repeatedly, becomes infected-looking, causes marked pain, interferes with eating or breathing, or affects vision. Seek urgent help if your dog is struggling to breathe, cannot eat or drink, collapses, or seems severely unwell. These signs reflect the need for examination and supportive care; they do not by themselves prove the type or extent of tumour.

What tissue test will confirm the diagnosis? Can the lesion be removed with a suitable margin? Should nearby lymph nodes be assessed? Would Mohs Surgery be relevant for a difficult location? What follow-up checks and home-care instructions will my dog need?