Abscesses refer to accumulations of pus, dead cell debris, and immune cells that have encapsulated themselves from the rest of the body and are relatively common in dogs. They can occur externally or internally as a result of infections or injuries, and, in addition to pain, may be characterized by other symptoms such as fever. Untreated abscesses can lead to serious health consequences. In the following article, we explain what else you need to know about abscesses in dogs.

Abscess in Dogs: Possible Symptoms

Untreated abscesses can spread and lead to a dangerous blood infection in dogs. Additionally, internally located abscesses may not be immediately apparent. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the following signs:

It is crucial to take these symptoms seriously, and in case of uncertainty, promptly consult a veterinarian to determine whether an external or concealed internal abscess is present. Under no circumstances should you attempt to treat or open an abscess in your dog yourself; always leave the treatment to the knowledgeable hands of your veterinarian. An abscess in a dog should not be treated with home remedies or homeopathy to avoid unnecessarily delaying veterinary therapy.

Causes

There are essentially two possible causes for the formation of abscesses. Firstly, injuries, especially when they become infected and pathogens enter. Such wounds can occur as bite wounds from a fight but also through scratches, cuts, or stings caused by plants, insects, or objects. The penetration and retention of a foreign body in the tissue are also risk factors. Even with injections administered by the veterinarian, there is a low risk of forming a so-called “injection abscess.” Secondly, infectious diseases or dental problems can induce or favor the formation of abscesses.

Diagnosis

After an anamnesis, which involves clarifying your dog’s symptoms and living conditions, the veterinarian begins the actual examination. External abscesses are usually quickly identifiable through palpation for a knowledgeable veterinarian. Swellings or pain also provide informative clues. To examine the abscess more thoroughly and, for example, detect bacteria, your veterinarian will take pus samples and have them examined in the laboratory. In contrast, internal abscesses can only be detected through imaging techniques such as X-rays or ultrasound.

Treatment of Abscesses in Dogs

For an abscess in your dog to be treated, it must be “ripe,” meaning it has completely encapsulated itself from the rest of the body. Only then can your veterinarian open it, drain it, and flush the wound with a disinfectant solution. Depending on the dog’s behavior, the size of the abscess, and the severity of the procedure, this can happen either under local anesthesia or sedation/anesthesia. Additionally, the veterinarian will administer pain medication to your dog and provide antibiotics to combat or prevent bacterial infections. To expedite the maturation of the abscess, drawing ointments can be applied. Internal abscesses must always be surgically treated, and your dog will be placed under anesthesia. Antibiotic therapy is particularly crucial for internal abscesses.

Prognosis

With timely therapy, the prospects for external, clearly defined abscesses are good. However, if the abscesses have ruptured and are also located inside the body, the likelihood of complications is higher. This is even more true for untreated or belatedly treated abscesses. In such cases, the abscess can continue to expand uncontrollably or even rupture. Pus can then enter the bloodstream, leading to life-threatening consequences such as sepsis or organ failure. In most cases, your veterinarian can effectively treat an abscess, allowing your dog to recover soon. However, complete healing can take four weeks or longer, even in these cases.

Preventing Abscesses in Dogs: What You Can Do

Hygiene is crucial, especially when it comes to preventing the formation of abscesses, as germs are often direct or indirect triggers. Ensure that your home and your dog’s environment are always well-maintained and clean, and that any wounds are properly disinfected and professionally cared for. Using products from the pet store that repel parasites like fleas, ticks, or mosquitoes can further reduce the risk of infection.

Good dental hygiene, such as regular teeth brushing for your dog, and prompt treatment of inflammations in the teeth or jaw, help avoid the formation of abscesses. It’s essential to monitor your dog’s health and regularly and promptly visit the veterinarian. With dog health insurance, you can get coverage at an affordable cost.

Note: Our article aims to provide general information and initial insights into abscesses in dogs. It should not be used for independent diagnosis, treatment, and medication of your dog and should never replace the expert examination and therapy by your veterinarian.