>
>
>
My dog, Toby, is 5 years old and has had black gunk on his lower lips since I adopted him in December. They appear to be painful to touch, he certainly doesn't like us touching his mouth. They are attached like a scab and then eventually disconnect and hang on the fur. Is there anything we can do to clean it up?
Updated On September 7th, 2020
Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 5 years and 8 months old | 25 lbs
Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA 181
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.
View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.
The scabs and gunk building up indicate that the skin underneath is not healthy, which could be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, autoimmune disease, among a few other things. i would recommend taking Toby to the vet for examination and possible biopsy or bacterial culture. You can try using a warm wet washcloth to soften the scabs, but I wouldn’t push it if he seems uncomfortable.
4Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Other Answers
Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!