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My dog has an abscess. Can I treat it at home to save money?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Male | neutered | 11 lbs

My dog has an abscess and it costs way too much to remove, is there a way to remove or at least heal it myself?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on December 11th, 2017

Did your veterinarian send you home with antibiotics? Occasionally they will resolve with an antibiotic without lancing and draining. I would warm compress the area several times a day with warm water and Epsom salts and sometimes they will drain on their own. My concern with abscesses in dogs is that often there is a thorn or something similar in the tissue that is causing the problem. If that is not found and removed then it tends to migrate and have a recurring problem. Best of luck and I hope he improves soon! Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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11Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 7th, 2018

    Abscesses are pockets of infection, and they are very painful to the dog. You will need to take her into a vet as soon as possible to have it treated. The vet will need to drain and flush the abscess, and will prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 22nd, 2017

    If she has an abscess than she will need an antibiotic to treat the infection. You clean the area with an antiseptic wound cleaner but it would be best if she saw a vet for an antibiotic. Depending on the abscess, she may need to be sedated and the abscess may need to be flushed and she also may need a drain to help with healing. Hope she gets better soon!

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    Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 27th, 2018

    If you can, flush the abscess cavity with a mild disinfectant. Your dog might not need any more antibiotics. Take Scruffy's temperature on Monday morning. If she has a fever (higher than 102.5F) take her to a veterinarian for an exam. If she has no fever, this may heal by itself without antibiotic treatment.

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