How to Treat a Porcupine Attack For Dogs

Dogs are led by their noses. Sometimes they get into trouble by following their nose. If your dog happens upon a Porcupine, the result can be serious injury. An attack by a Porcupine which really isn't an attack, Porcupines just defend themselves, is a veterinary emergency. If you are unable to get veterinary care, there are a few things you can do to help your dog, but they really needs to be treated by a veterinarian.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Calm your dog. Your dog will be in a lot of pain, calm him as best you can. Use care because many dogs bite when they are in pain.

2. Wear gloves to protect your hands. The quills are sharp.

3. Use strong pliers to pull out one quill at a time. Get as close to the base of the quill as possible and use gentle constant pressure to pull each quill out. Do not cut the quills, it does NOT make the quill shrink or easier to pull out. Cutting them can make them break down further, making them even harder to remove. This is very painful for your dog because the quills have backwards facing barbs.

4. Apply an antiseptic such as Betadine solution. Dab on each puncture.

5. Feel all over your dog to make sure each Porcupine quill has been removed.

Tips & Warnings

• VETERINARY CARE IS REQUIRED
• Only attempt if you are absolutely unable to find emergency vet care.

[jwsheket]

on 9/21/2009 Yikes, I would be scared if this happened to my dog! Thanks for the article, 5* + recom!

[Mitestarossa]

on 9/20/2009 Poor doggy! Get them to the vet quick!