How to Treat Pyoderma
Pyoderma is a general term referring to a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pus in a dog's skin. Sometimes the cause of the pyoderma is unknown, but most commonly it happens as a result of a dog's allergic reaction to flea bites. The condition starts with a red, spotty rash that becomes irritated with open sores. The dog scratches a lot, making the irritation worse.
Things You'll Need
- Cold compress
- Topical cream
- Medicated shampoo
- Antihistamines
- Antibiotics
Instructions
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Make your dog comfortable. Treat the affected areas with cool compresses to soothe the itching. Your vet might recommend topical antibacterial or analgesic cream. Keep the dog from scratching, as it just worsens the condition.
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Wash your dog in the medicated shampoo prescribed by your vet. Lather the dog thoroughly and let the shampoo sit on the skin for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat this treatment 2 to 3 times a week until the rash disappears. Use the shampoo as recommended by your vet to help prevent future pyoderma infections.
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Treat more serious pyoderma with antihistamines. Infection on the surface of the skin can usually be treated with medicated shampoo alone, but most pyoderma is a result of an allergic reaction. Antihistamines will help to control this reaction and make the dog more comfortable.
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Use antibiotics to treat deeper pyoderma infections. Some pyoderma can go very deep into the skin and make the dog very sick. Treat deep pyoderma aggressively with antibiotics as recommended by your vet.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't diagnose pyoderma yourself if it's the first time your dog shows symptoms of seriously inflamed skin. Get a vet's diagnosis to be sure of the correct treatment. Since pyoderma is often chronic, you will be better able to recognize the condition after the dog's had it once or twice.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image courtesy of Wikipedia Commons
