Free running sled dogs in northern Minnesota doesn’t always go as smooth as planned. Sometimes you run into these nasty little rodents called porcupines! They are slow moving, smell good (to dogs), and are the perfect prey animal for larger predators. Unfortunately dogs get the short end of the stick, literally. Don’t panic! In this video I show you how to pull quills at home if you are far from a veterinarian to make your dog comfortable again.

All you need is a little time and some supplies.

  • needle nose pliers
  • hydrogen peroxide
  • a dish for the quills
  • antibiotics
  • short leash
  • lots of patience

Call your local vet if you do not have ABX on hand or if you need correct dosages. Most mushers have a stock as we do a lot of animal care at home or on the trail where we do not have quick access to a doctor.