Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog's face is swollen after a fight. Is home treatment enough?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dogs got into a fight Friday and one of my dogs face is swollen and her eye is there anything I can do at home

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 3rd, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question. I'm sorry to hear about the dog fight. I'm concerned that her face is still swollen this many days after the fight. There is a chance an abscess has now formed. Bacteria are introduced under the skin with the bite. The skin tends to heal over the wound trapping the bacteria under the skin. If the infection grows, a swelling known as an abscess forms. This will likely require antibiotics, if not surgery to heal. Your dog will need to see a veterinarian. In the meantime, you can try warm compresses at home. Apply a warm washcloth to the swollen area for 5 minutes three times per day. I hope this information!

Vote icon

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 9th, 2017

    Ouch! Dog fights can be stressful for the dogs and owners can't they? Depending on how deep the puncture wounds are, they should probably be thoroughly flushed and cleaned. In some cases, if they are communicating with one another internally a drain may need to be placed to allow for appropriate healing to occur. To help with the swelling, pain medications, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory medication should be prescribed by a veterinarian. While this is not necessarily an emergency if there is no significant active bleeding, the sooner Hershey gets some medication the sooner he will start to feel better. Also, the less likely there will be an infection if the antibiotics are obtained and started sooner.

    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
Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?
Can you use contact lens saline for your mouse's eye drops? A certified vet discusses ingredients like boric acid and potassium chloride. Find safe solutions for your pet!
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
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My guinea pig has a growing lump on its neck. Can it heal itself?
Guinea pig has a growing, hard neck lump? Worried about vet costs? A certified veterinarian advises on crucial steps for diagnosis and your pet's well-being.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's eye looks strange but doesn't seem to hurt. What's wrong?
Is your pet's eye issue painless? A DVM explains potential corneal trauma or scratch. Immediate vet care is crucial to save their eye. Get expert advice now!
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored