Pyoderma is a bacterial skin infection that affects dogs with underlying skin problems.
CAUSES:
Underlying skin conditions that leave skin more susceptible to and cause pyoderma include:
Allergic diseases: pyoderma can develop where the dog is constantly scratching
Hormonal imbalance: often from a thyroid disease
Skin infections: yeast, fungal
Parasites: fleas, ticks
Seborrhea: a skin disease
Dogs with any of the above problems commonly have pyoderma.
Pyoderma may occur when:
The skin’s surface has been broken
The skin is injured from constant exposure to moisture
The blood flow to the skin is affected
The immune system is compromised
SIGNS:
The most common and noticeable symptom is red, raised pimples with white pus.
Other signs may include:
Scabs
Flaky skin patches
Itching
Hair loss
Excessive shedding
Greasy hair
DIAGNOSIS:
Your veterinarian will examine your dog’s signs and medical history and perform some tests, including:
Skin scraping
Skin biopsy
Fungal culture
Bacterial culture
Blood tests to check for hormonal diseases
Allergy testing
TREATMENT:
Most veterinarians will recommend the following treatments:
Topical and oral antibiotics: the length of time for medication depends on the depth of the infection, and must be completed in full, even if the skin improves
Follow-up visits: required because your dog may need changes in medication as the condition improves
Medicated shampoo: use to bathe your dog
Bedding: provide padded bedding that is dry and clean
PREVENTION:
The underlying problem must be treated to prevent recurrence.
PROGNOSIS:
There is a great prognosis for pyoderma if you give medication properly and treat the underlying cause.
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