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My dog has a porcupine quill. Will it fall out or can I sedate her?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | spayed | 8 years and 9 months old | 90 lbs

Ember has picked up a porcupine quill that is hanging from her chin. Do you think it will fall off and, if not, is there a medication we can give her to sedate her long enough so we ca remove the quill. She won't let us near it.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 7th, 2022

Poor Ember. No, this will not fall off on its own. Because of their barbs, porcupine quills can get stuck in a dog's soft tissue, and can move deeper into the body if they're not removed right away. The more the dog moves, the more likely the quills are to break and travel further into her face. Unfortunately there are no OTC medications you can give her to sedate her. She won't let her near it because it's quite painful. You need to take her into a vet immediately so that they can safely sedate her and remove the quill. Please take her into a vet now. Best of luck.

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