Dog Skin Ulcers Treatment: Effective Medications
When many dog owners spot their furry companions suffering from skin ulcers, their first instinct is often to reach for iodine solution for disinfection. This is a step in the right direction, as cleaning the wound can help prevent infection from worsening. However, the challenge comes with choosing the right medication, as seemingly minor skin ulcers can rapidly deteriorate if not treated properly.
It's actually not that difficult to treat dog skin diseases. The key lies in identifying the specific cause and treating it accordingly. When a dog's skin ulcers occur, it's crucial to select the appropriate medication based on the underlying cause. Here are some common causes and corresponding treatment suggestions:
1. Cause Analysis
1. Bacterial Infection: Bacteria are a common culprit behind dog skin ulcers. In such cases, it's essential to use medications with antibacterial and antiinflammatory properties.
2. Fungal Infection: Fungi can also lead to skin ulcers in dogs, especially when the skin remains moist or damaged for an extended period.
3. Parasite Infection: Parasites like mites and fleas can also cause skin ulcers in dogs.
4. Allergic Reactions: Dogs may develop itchy reactions to certain foods, medications, or environmental substances, leading to skin ulcers due to constant scratching.
Other factors: Environmental conditions (like humidity and unsanitary conditions), poor nutrition, and weakened immunity can also trigger skin diseases in dogs, leading to ulcers.
2. Treatment Suggestions
Firstly, it's important to remove the hair around the affected area to expose the wound for easier treatment. Then, wash the wound with physiological saline to remove foreign objects and necrotic tissue, followed by disinfection with iodine solution. If the skin ulcer is severe, debridement may be necessary to remove the ulcerated skin.
Medications tailored to the cause:
1. Bacterial Infection: For mild symptoms, clean the wound with physiological saline and iodine solution, then apply a skin antibacterial spray like Pipute Skin Antiseptic Spray for inflammation. Keep the wound dry and continue the medication. In severe cases, debridement and antibiotics may be required.
2. Fungal Infection: Treatments with antifungal drugs containing ingredients like terbinafine and itraconazole can be effective, such as Pipute (Tebafine Hydrochloride Spray). These medications can effectively kill fungi and promote the healing of skin surface wounds.
3. Parasite Infection: For skin ulcers caused by parasites, external deworming treatment is necessary. Common deworming medications include nonbolony and ivermectin. Regular deworming is crucial for pets. Pet owners can keep some Aidike (Nonbolony Drop) on hand, a petspecific external deworming medication, primarily containing nonbolony, suitable for Collies.
4. Allergic Reactions: If the skin ulcers are due to allergic reactions, antiallergic medications should be used. Common antiallergic drugs include antihistamines and corticosteroids. However, it's important to note that corticosteroids can have side effects if used longterm, so they must be used under a veterinarian's guidance.
3. Important Notes
1. Always consult a veterinarian before using any medication and follow their advice.
2. During treatment, to prevent the dog from scratching the wound and causing secondary infection or ingesting the medication, it's necessary to fit the dog with an Elizabethan collar.
3. Maintain a clean living environment for the dog, including cleaning their living area, beds, toys, and more, to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi and lower the risk of infection.
If the dog's skin ulcer symptoms are severe or persist without improvement, please take them to a professional veterinary hospital for examination and treatment promptly.