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Question

Doggy warts


Sent to Pet Experts August 12, 2006 9:13 p.m.

My 9 year old black lab has what looks like two wart-type growths on the right side of her muzzle. They have been there for maybe six months now and do not seem to be getting any bigger in size, nor does my lab seem to be bothered by them.
At the insistance of my mother-in-law, I dab on vitamin E (broken from a soft capsule) once a day. She had heard that this treatment might clear this wart condition up.
My question is if a OTC wart remedy might be better for my lab. I know there is a possibility that these wart-like bumps might not be warts at all, and should be verified by a vet. Thing is, the lab isn't mine, and my hubby doesn't feel that this "wart problem" is worth having checked out unless it causes our dog pain or looks to be getting bigger or worse. I've tried looking up pictures of these warts (on dogs) to see if I could see any resemblance to the bumbs on our labs face, to make sure these were indeed warts.
I have yet to find any such pictures or references on the internet.
So, again, since the family feels a vet check isn't in order, and under the assumtion (by the family) that these muzzle bumps are warts, can a regular OTC wart remedy be harmful to use on a dog?
p.s. sorry so long.

Optional Information:
Age: 9; Female; Breed: Black Lab

Already Tried:
Dab of vitamin E once a day, and general "keeping an eye on it".
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $8   
Answer
August 12, 2006 9:45 p.m. (32 minutes and 27 seconds later)
ACCEPTED Check Mark

There is a condition called Viral Papilloma which basically are benign non-cancerous tumors that is caused by a virus. They are wart-like or cauliflower-like growths around the lips, mouth and muzzle, and tongue but since she is into her geriatric years this is less common. I would not recommed trying an OTC wart remover without the warts being further evaluated to make sure there is no chance of a cancerous growth and some medication that will be safely prescribed. If the wart is from the viral papilloma antibiotics are needed followed by possible standard cyrosurgery which basically eliminates it immediately. There is a good chance that this could be a wart or related to a simple infection but even without discomfort I would have them checked out and they will prescribe the best therapy as OTC wart removers that are used on humans is not recommended for dogs or cats as well.

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*Cheryl K* Please click the "ACCEPT" button
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1 Other Expert Agrees with this!

PictureCheryl K.  -- Veterinary Assistant -- 99% Positive Feedback on 821 Pet Accepts
12+ years of shelter work/ vaccinations/ disease/ illness/ injury/ medical care

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