A lump or a sac that contains pus often develops in dogs. Swelling of the affected area and pain that hampers the normal movements of the dog are the typical symptoms of abscess. The dog owner has to know what first aid methods can be administered to give the dog relief from pain.
The swollen sac that contains pus can develop from bruises, scratches and puncture wounds. Dogs have the propensity to fight with other dogs and with other animals thus these skin injuries usually happen. Painful and inflamed lump can form on any part of the dog's body. The swollen pus filled sac develops when a wound heals very fast so that dirt and germs are trapped beneath the skin. Infection will occur because the tissues under the skin is ideal for bacteria to grow. The swollen sac will develop because of the presence of bacteria.
The dog's immune system will react to the invasion of foreign material by increasing the blood supply and the number of white blood cells that will fight the invaders. The hardening and the swelling of the sac as well as the formation of pus results when the accumulated white blood cells in the affected area die. The fibrous capsule will be filled with pus and foul smelling brown or yellowish liquid. The swollen skin will feel hot when touched. Because of the pain, the pet would have no interest in doing its normal activities. The dog may have no interest in food as well.
Some types of abscess would heal even without treatment. For abscesses that does not heal on their own, treatment would be necessary to save the pet from suffering more pain. Left untreated the abscess can seriously affect the tissues around the affected area and cause internal toxicity. An abscess can rupture on its own. Pus and smelly brown liquid would drain from the lump. The fur around the lump will be matted by the odorous discharge. Fur caked by the abscess discharges must be trimmed. The contents of the abscess must be drained fully.
Ten to fifteen minutes application of warm compress will cause the abscess to rupture. A hot wash cloth will increase blood flow to the infected area. The hot compress must be repeated several times until the abscess comes to a head. Gently squeeze the ruptured abscess to remove the core. The pus must be allowed to drain completely. Flush out the opening of the abscess with hydrogen peroxide. Apply antiseptic to the wound generously. Bandage must not be used on an abscess to allow the discharge to drain completely.
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