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What to do for an injured stray dog when you can't afford a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 18 lbs

I have a stray that looks like he has been kicked. Swollen right jaw, swollen eye, difficulty breathing through nose. Also one single puncture wound on face. Please help. Can't afford vet but really want to help this guy!!!!

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1 Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 4th, 2017

I think the best thing you can do for Batman is surrender him to a local animal shelter. They have vets on staff, who can diagnose the specific problems and make sure he gets the best treatment. Taking care of these strays and finding their owners is their main purpose. Also, he may be owned and they will be better able to help find his owner by scanning for a microchip and advertising him to the community. For now, it's best to keep the wound clean by flushing it with just normal water (do not use any soaps or antiseptics). Flush the wound(s) for five minutes twice a day. You can also apply an icepack to the swollen areas for 15 minutes twice a day to help decrease the swelling. I hope that helps and Batman gets treatment soon.

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