Severe Dog Interdigital Dermatitis: What to Expect
Understanding the Severity of Dog Interdigital Dermatitis
Interdigital dermatitis in dogs is typically caused by secondary infections following trauma, or by parasites like mites and fungi. Initially, the symptoms may appear as a small bump between a paw's toes, similar in size to a pimple on a human face, with minimal pain. This often goes unnoticed. As bacteria multiply, the inflammation worsens, and the bump grows larger. When the skin can no longer contain the swelling, or the dog licks and chews at the area due to pain or itching, pusfilled blisters may burst, releasing a considerable amount of pus or blood.
This stage can lead to the dog being unable to stand or walk normally due to pain and swelling in the paw, resulting in prolonged lying on the floor or limping. Sometimes, blisters appear in just one toe crevice, while other times, multiple crevices are affected. The toe crevices may become red, and the dog may excessively lick its paws due to itching and pain.
Without timely treatment, interdigital dermatitis can progress to cysts, which are chronic inflammatory lesions in the dog's toes. These cysts are characterized by multiple nodules and early symptoms include bumps in the toe crevices, which then develop into purplered nodules with a glossy appearance and a fluctuating feel. Pressure can cause them to rupture, releasing bloody exudate. If left untreated, the entire paw can become red and swollen, leading to bleeding between the toes, limping, and in severe cases, even sepsis.
How to Treat Dog Interdigital Dermatitis
The occurrence of interdigital dermatitis is often related to the dog's paws being in a moist environment for extended periods, weakened skin resistance, or paw injuries. Bacteria can enter through skin breaks or when the dog's immune system is low, causing interdigital dermatitis.
Therefore, the treatment principle for interdigital dermatitis involves first keeping the paw dry and clean, then using antibacterial and antiseptic medications such as Iodophor lactate and Clevipet Wound Spray to eliminate staphylococci and streptococci, and to promote skin regeneration. If there is swelling or ulcers between the toes, it is recommended to express the secretions first before administering necessary antiinfection treatments. The affected area should be cleaned daily, and treatment typically needs to continue for about a week. During this time, it is advisable to fit the dog with an Elizabethan collar to prevent it from licking the medication and further infecting the wound. Additionally, oral vitamin B complex solutions are recommended to promote tissue repair and hair growth, speeding up the skin's recovery.
Understanding the severity of dog interdigital dermatitis can be crucial for pet owners. If you notice signs of interdigital dermatitis in your dog, it's important to seek treatment promptly to avoid complications. For more information or any other related queries, explore "Dog Skin Diseases" or consult with an online veterinary expert.
