Symptoms and Treatment for Dog Interdigital Dermatitis

How to Prevent Your Dog from Developing Interdigital Dermatitis

1. Keep Your Dog's Paws Dry

It's not necessary to wash your dog's feet every time they come inside, especially if they're not particularly dirty. A quick wipe with a damp towel is sufficient. If you do need to wash them, ensure you dry the paws thoroughly with a hairdryer right after. Prolonged moisture can lead to infections and inflammation. Try to minimize the frequency of washing your dog's feet to greatly reduce the risk of interdigital dermatitis.

2. Limit Use of Cleaning Products

Avoid overusing cleaning agents when bathing your dog. While pet shampoos and disinfectant products are generally gentle, they can strip the skin of its protective layer, making the paw pads more susceptible to bacteria. Stick to clean water whenever possible to maintain your dog's paw health.

3. Use AlcoholFree Wet Wipes for Cleaning

For those occasions when your dog's paws are not too dirty, consider using lowalcohol wet wipes instead of washing. This method can clean and disinfect without irritating your dog's paw pads.

4. Regularly Trim Hair and Nails

Long hair and nails can trap dirt and bacteria, leading to interdigital dermatitis. Regular grooming is key. Use a small clipper to trim the hair around the paw pads gently, and be patient to avoid injury. Rewarding your dog with treats like chickenflavored freezedried snacks can make the process more pleasant and encourage cooperation.

How to Treat Dog Interdigital Dermatitis

1. Mild Case of Redness

For a mild case of redness between the paw pads, simply clean the area with water and apply a topical spray. Consistent use for three days should show significant improvement.

2. Severe Infection

If the foot has become脓filled, it's a serious matter. Prompt veterinary care is necessary, and your dog may need an Elizabethan collar to prevent further licking and infection.

3. Maintain Dryness

Proper drying is crucial for both treatment and prevention of interdigital dermatitis. Moisture exacerbates infections.

Oxygen Pet Doctor's Tip

In addition to the above precautions, consider supplementing your dog's diet with nutrients that boost skin resistance. Feeding them vegetables and fruits or providing vitamin A and E supplements can enhance their skin's ability to fight off irritants.

Remember, a wellcaredfor dog is a happy dog!