How to Remove Quills

Quills are a porcupine's main line of defense.

If your dog finds a porcupine, there is a chance that you might be dealing with porcupine quills that have become lodged in your dog's flesh. Porcupines are covered with sharp, barbed quills that they use as their primary method of defense.

Things You'll Need

• Muzzle
• Pliers

Instructions

1. Inspect your dog. If there are more than five quills, or if the quills are buried deeply into your dog's flesh, you may need to go to the veterinarian. Similarly, if a quill has broken off under your dog's skin or if there are quills lodged in your dog's mouth, they should be removed by a veterinarian.

2. Muzzle your dog. A dog who has quills in his flesh is in pain, and may bite when you go to remove them.

3. Hold your dog steady. If at all possible, keep your dog still while you are removing the quills.

4. Grasp the quill as close to your dog's skin as possible using the pliers.

5. Pull the quill out with a strong steady motion.

6. Repeat steps 3 through 5 until all of the quills have been removed.

References

• Pet Education: Porcupine Quills in Pets--First Aid and Removal
• Best Friends Pet Care: Removing Porcupine Quills