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Dog with a wound has fever (41.1 C / 105.98 F). How to treat this?

Something weird just happened and I’m kinda freaking out a bit. My dog, Max, developed a wound on his leg a couple of days ago. I thought it was healing, but now he’s started acting super lethargic, and when I took his temperature this morning, it was like 41.1 degrees Celsius. It’s Sunday, and my vet isn’t available, so I’m really worried. He’s just lying by the back door, panting, and not interested in food or his favorite squeaky toy. Has anyone else dealt with something like this? What should I do in the meantime to make him comfortable until I can get him to a vet? Thanks so much.

Answer

I completely understand why you're worried—having a dog with a fever can be quite stressful. When your dog is running a high fever, especially with a wound, it can be a sign of an infection. Fever is the body's way of fighting off infection, but when it's this high (like 41.1 C / 105.98 F), it could indicate that your dog needs more help.



The wound itself might be infected, which causes the body to react with a fever. Other signs of infection on a wound include redness, swelling, pus, or a foul odor. At home, you can gently clean the wound with warm water and mild soap if your vet has advised this before, and ensure it stays dry and clean. Be cautious and gentle, and avoid applying products that aren't vet-approved, as they might irritate or worsen the condition.



Keep an eye on your dog's behavior. If they seem lethargic, lose their appetite, or are vomiting, these could indicate that the issue might be more severe. Additionally, while it's good to keep your dog comfortable, ensure they have access to fresh, cool water and encourage them to drink to stay hydrated.



Given the high fever, I'd recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet. This way, we can assess the situation more closely and guide you on the best treatment steps, to ensure your pup gets the care they need swiftly.

Clinically Approved Standard by Dial A Vet Veterinary Team

Disclaimer: The customer and expert messages presented herein may have been altered with artificial intelligence or modified to enhance readability and safeguard the privacy of individuals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Talk to a vet now.

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