Can Dogs with Folliculitis Bathe? Should the Lesions Be
Q1: Can Dogs with Folliculitis Take a Bath?
Firstly, to address this question, we need to understand what folliculitis in dogs actually is.
Folliculitis is an inflammation of the dog's hair follicles, typically presenting as bumps or red swellings at the base of the hair or around the follicle openings. It commonly affects the limbs, neck, and head of dogs, with the affected areas showing redness and swelling. The hair follicles, or the roots of the hair, may have numerous black spots that are prone to falling out. Dogs often suffer from folliculitis due to an overly greasy diet, which leads to excessive oil secretion and subsequent clogging of the hair follicles, often resulting in bacterial infections.
Therefore, dogs with folliculitis can indeed take a bath, and in fact, it's recommended to bathe them more frequently than usual. However, it's crucial not to use human shampoo, as it can disrupt the dog's skin barrier. Instead, opt for petspecific shampoos, such as the herbal formula from Fu'an Jian, which can promote healthy skin growth, remove excess oil, reduce odor, and leave a lasting fragrance. Always ensure to dry your dog thoroughly after a bath, using a hairdryer to get every nook and cranny, including the ears and between the toes, as these areas are more prone to moisture retention and bacterial growth.
Q2: How to Treat Dog Folliculitis?
The best treatment for dog folliculitis involves a multistep approach. First and foremost, you should take your dog to a veterinary clinic for a skin scraping examination. This is a standard procedure for any skin condition in dogs, as it helps identify the root cause of the folliculitis, allowing for the most costeffective and effective treatment based on the type of bacteria involved. The cost of a skin scraping is generally affordable, ranging from a few to several dozen yuan. In cases of severe folliculitis, additional blood tests and urine tests may be necessary for further analysis.
Once the cause of the folliculitis is determined, treatment can begin. Typically, a combination of oral medications, topical treatments, and medicated baths is required to address folliculitis across all affected areas. While topical treatments can alleviate local symptoms, a comprehensive approach with both topical and systemic medications is essential to prevent secondary infections.
The sooner treatment is initiated, the lower the cost and the shorter the recovery time. Delaying treatment can lead to increased costs and longer recovery periods. If you notice signs of folliculitis on your dog and selfadministered treatments don't show improvement, or the condition worsens, it's vital to seek veterinary care or consult with an online pet doctor promptly. This ensures the best chance for recovery and avoids unnecessary stress and expense for both your pet and your finances.
