General Information
Porcupine have more than 40,000 quills. These quills are an effective means of defense against any attacker or curious pet. A porcupine's quills can easily penetrate any area of a pet. They have backward-pointing barbs that hold them firmly in place and make them difficult to remove. If not removed promptly, quills can move further into the skin, even becoming buried in the skin.
Signs
Quills will be imbedded, usually in the mouth, face and front paws. The animal generally tries to paw at his face in an attempt to remove the quills, which are very painful. This only results in burying the quills deeper, and/or breaking them off, which makes them harder to remove.
Immediate Action
Stop the dog from pawing his face. If your pet escaped with only a few external (outside the mouth) quills, you may be able to remove them yourself. First restrain your pet, then, using hemostats or pliers, grab a quill as close to the skin as possible and steadily pull the quill out. Be sure to examine your pet's entire body feeling for hidden quills. Since they can range in length from one-half inch to four inches, they may not all be readily visible. If your pet has more than several quills, quills in the mouth, or one has broken off under the skin, seek veterinary attention immediately. It is absolutely necessary that all quills be removed.
Veterinary Care
Your veterinarian may give your pet an anesthetic (especially for quills in the mouth or throat) to aid in removing the quills. An antihistamine may be given to ward off an allergic skin reaction and swelling. A mild pain reliever may be prescribed. To treat or prevent infection, antibiotics may be dispensed or administered.
The prognosis for recovery is good with prompt treatment, however, if quills are not removed, they can travel through the body and cause injury to internal organs.