As Dog Bite Prevention Week continues, and a reminder that all animals, even well-trained ones, can be unpredictable. All animals - pets or wildlife - that are stressed, frightened or injured will often bite and scratch, and should be treated with extreme caution.

In addition to being mindful of diseases such as about rabies, pet owners should also be aware of the potential danger of infection from animal bites and scratches. Puncture wounds from bites  are often worse than they look at first glance; damage occurs beneath the skin surface. It is best  to visit your doctor, the sooner the better.

Photo: Dog bite on arm from a 3 pound Maltese by Julianna on Flickr

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National Dog Bite Prevention Week is May 19-25, 2013.  The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) is promoting dog bite prevention with safety tips, audio and video segments, printable brochures, and a Facebook event to create awareness that "any dog can bite."

A dog with teeth barred (as in the photo) is an obvious danger. How do you react in this type of situation to avoid a bite? On the other end of the spectrum, friendly dogs that are unexpectedly hugged or have their tail pulled may also react with a bite. Read More...

You take your male dog in to be neutered, and after he is back home, it appears that the testicles are still there. Or are they?

Learn the answer to this common question, why it may happen, and if you should be concerned.

FAQ: Was my dog really neutered?

Readers Respond: Tell us about having your pet spayed or neutered

Suggested Reading:

• Dog Neuter - a surgical photo gallery
• Why should my cryptorchid pet be neutered?
• Neutering (Castration) in Dogs and Cats
• Is this post abdominal (spay) surgery lump "normal"?

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Most lipomas are watched and not surgically removed, but if they are large, impede movement or function, or suspected of being malignant, they are removed surgically.

This is a surgical step-by-step of a lipoma removal. Please note: The photos in this gallery are graphic and not for those who are squeamish at the sight of blood or surgery.

Suggested Reading

• Lumps and Bumps in Pets
• Veterinary Q & A - Lipomas (fatty tumors) in Dogs and Cats
• Readers Respond: Monitoring Lumps and Bumps in Pets

Photo: Veterinary anesthesia equipment © Janet Tobiassen Crosby DVM

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