Dog Skin Disease: Treatment for Scratches and Pus

When a dog falls victim to skin disease, it's generally advised to fit them with an Elizabethan collar. This is because skin conditions often come with itching and discomfort, prompting the dog to excessively scratch at the affected areas, which can exacerbate infections. However, many pet owners may not be aware of this and only take notice when the dog's skin condition worsens.

As the dog's skin develops symptoms like pus, it typically indicates a more severe infection. Here are some recommended treatments and methods to consider:

Local Treatment:

1. Wound Cleaning:

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the affected area with warm water, ensuring all fur is cleaned and, if possible, trimmed to facilitate better access to the wound.

Next, flush the wound with physiological saline or diluted hydrogen peroxide to remove pus and debris. Be cautious with the hydrogen peroxide, as it should be diluted to avoid causing irritation to the dog's skin.

2. Disinfection:

After cleaning, apply a disinfectant such as iodine or a petspecific disinfectant to the wound. Iodine is a common choice due to its mild skin irritation, but ensure the dog does not lick it off.

3. Medication Application:

Once disinfected, apply antibacterial and antifungal topical medications like erythromycin ointment or Furetan (zinc oxide ointment). These can effectively inhibit bacterial growth and promote healing.

Systemic Treatment:

1. Oral Antibiotics:

For skin conditions that have resulted in pus, oral antibiotics are often necessary. The type and dosage of the antibiotic should be determined by a veterinarian based on the dog's weight and condition. Common choices include Cefadroxil tablets and Amoxicillin.

2. Nutritional Support:

During treatment, feed the dog a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, or consider giving them a supplement like Golden葆 (multivitamin B complex) to boost their immune system and aid in skin repair.

Care Instructions:

1. Elizabethan Collar:

To prevent the dog from licking the wound or the medication, an Elizabethan collar should be used. This helps reduce the risk of infection and aids in healing.

2. Maintain Dryness:

Since skin diseases often arise in damp environments, it's crucial to keep the dog's living area dry and clean during treatment to minimize bacterial growth.

3. Regular Checkups:

If the dog's skin condition does not improve or worsens, it's advisable to bring them back to the vet for a followup. The vet may adjust the treatment plan to ensure the dog recovers as quickly as possible.

In summary, treating a dog's skin disease that results in broken skin and pus requires a combination of local and systemic treatments, along with careful attention to care instructions. It's also essential to monitor the dog's condition closely and communicate with the vet to make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.