One front is usually an abscess, and the onset sounds classic. I use
animalintex poultice pads and soak for 20 minutes between poultice changes
in hot water and epsom salts. (I have dealt with many, many abscesses.)

If the heat is around the coronary band is that an indicator of where it wants to come out? Unfortunately, she does not soak well. can those pads still be used if this is the case?

Jean and Lady
CT 2005
http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/ECHistory/files/Lady/