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Dog's paw swollen, red, and chewed. What to do before vet visit?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 3 years and 2 months old

Olivers paw is swollen and red and he keeps chewing on it. I thought maybe it was from his allergies but I'm not sure. I don't get paid until next week so I won't be able to bring him to the vet until then. Is there anything I can do for his paw until we can make it to the vet?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2017

Oh no, poor Oliver! You can try soaking his paw in an Epsom salt bath, but it would be best he is seen by a vet as soon as possible. I can give you some resources that may help you afford a vet sooner than next week. You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/

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