Skin Abscesses in Dogs

“Abscess” is a general term referring to an infected, mass of fluid under the skin. In dogs, they are usually associated with an infected puncture wound. Abscesses may or may not be open and “weeping” fluid when the infection is noted.

With prompt and proper treatment, the majority of affected dogs are able to fully recover. Veterinary attention is warranted as home treatment for abscesses is not recommended.

Bite wound abscesses are a bigger concern in unvaccinated pets due to the risk for rabies exposure.

Skin abscesses are common in dogs. The condition is not life-threatening in and of itself. Prompt veterinary attention is warrant. Left untreated, the infection can spread by entering the bloodstream, causing organ and/or blood infection, which can lead to life threatening sepsis.

Skin abscesses usually originate from puncture wounds. Hunting dogs and those with mostly outdoor lifestyles are at higher risk of puncture wounds from bites, dog fights, and the environment. Immunocompromised, very young, and elderly dogs are more likely to develop infections from wounds. Dogs with large, extensive skin folds and short, spiky hair are also at increased risk of abscesses developing after suffering a puncture wound.

Abscesses can be caused by an array of bacteria which are transmitted by a penetrating wound.

Common sources of penetrating wounds in dogs include:

• Bite wounds
• Puncture wounds
• Injections

Bite wounds can cause an array of severe and life-threatening conditions and, as such, must always be treated as emergencies.

In most cases, the diagnosis of an abscess is straightforward and based on physical examination. Other diagnostics to determine the source of infection include:

• Bloodwork
• Microscopic examination of fluid from inside the abscess
• Bacterial culture to determine the kind of bacteria causing the infection

Once diagnosed, treatment options include:

• Antibiotic therapy
• Pain medication
• Drainage: if the abscess is unruptured, it needs to be lanced and cleaned

Lancing an abscess should only be performed by a veterinarian. It is not safe to try and drain a wound at home.

Once treated, ongoing monitoring is required until recovery is complete to prevent the spread of the infection.

Subsequent home care includes:

• Warm compresses
• Restricted activity
• Rest

With proper and prompt treatment, the majority of dogs are able to recover fully.

If medical attention is delayed or if the condition is left untreated, the infection can spread to other tissue or internal organs, which can become life threatening.

Abscesses are not contagious.

Prevention strategies include:

• Prevent fighting between dogs
• Keeping dogs on a leash when in proximity to other unknown animals
• Prompt medical treatment of wounds
• Appropriate skin care for dogs with excessive skin folds and short, spiky hair
• Prompt removal of grass awns stuck in the skin

In addition, keeping up to date with vaccinations is the best way to prevent a number of conditions.

Abscesses are common in dogs.

• Antibiotic therapy
• Pain medication
• Drainage