Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog's face is swollen. Is it an emergency if the vet is closed?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | French Bulldog | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 10 months old

My French bulldog Dolly's face has started swelling up all of a sudden, my vets aren't open now either. Do u think it's serious

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2016

It's probably an allergic reaction, as long as she doesn't seem lethargic and doesn't have any problem breathing, it's probably not going to be too serious. Most allergic reation of this sort resolve without treatment within 48 hours, but if the swelling is too bad I would recommend taking her to the emergencies to get an injection for the allergy.

Vote icon

12Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on

    Sudden facial swelling is most often the result of an allergic reaction to something - Dolly may have been stung by a bee or bitten by some type of insect. The biggest concern is that the swelling may interfere with her breathing if it continues to get worse, or she may have other symptoms of a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction such as weakness, collapse, vomiting or bloody diarrhea. I would recommend finding a vet clinic near you that is open (possibly an emergency clinic, if it's after-hours where you are) and having her seen as soon as possible - she will probably need injectable steroids and antihistamines to stop the swelling, and may also need fluids or other supportive care if there is any concern about other problems.

    Vote icon

    9Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 11th, 2020

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Grizzly. I see what you mean. I'm concerned she is having an allergic reaction and the problem with these is that her face can swell so much it disrupts her breathing. She needs to see a vet immediately to get this treated, and I would take her into an ER vet now. I hope this helps!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?
Is your Shih-Tzu crossbreed biting his feet, losing fur, or has a wound? A trusted vet explains these classic allergy signs and advises on treatments like Apoquel or medicated shampoo.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?
Dog food protein's biological value & digestibility: A vet explains why data is complex. Learn to judge quality by company reputation and your dog's health.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my puppy have bloody, mucousy stools despite diet changes?
Your 4-month-old puppy suffers from ongoing loose stools with mucus and blood. An expert veterinarian explores potential intestinal parasites and advises further fecal testing. Find answers here!
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored