Lump on the base of the tail

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I was giving my dog a bath today and noticed a lump about an inch long on the bottom of her tail. She does pull the hair from her hind area due to fleas (hence the bath) and it doesn't hurt when I squeeze it. She is still active and eats well. I know it's probably just an infection from fleas (she had a few) but I just wanted to be sure. Thanks in advance for your help.

[Brad Buckley, D.V.M.]

This bump could be one of two things: a skin tumor or a cyst caused by chronic irritation and the plugging of an oil gland. It is not uncommon for dog's with irritated skin to get cysts that consist of oily material. I would keep a close eye on it and see if it gets bigger or smaller. If it enlarges then I would have it checked out by a veterinarian. There are some skin tumors of dogs that can be problematic if not treated in a timely manner.

I wish you well and happy holidays!

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Thank you. We'll keep an eye on it.