Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

heavy dogs and dogs who are kenneled on cement floors. The most common
site is the elbow. Other sites are the outside of the hocks, the buttocks, and
the sides of the legs.
If the callus goes unchecked, the surface breaks down, forming an ulcer or
abscess that can become infected. This then becomes a most difficult problem
to treat.
Treatment: Provide the dog with a soft sleeping surface, such as a dog mattress
or foam pad covered with fabric, to take pressure off the callus. An
infected ulcer over bone must be treated by a veterinarian.
Pyoderma (Skin Infections)
Bacterial infections often develop in skin that has been traumatized and
abraded by excessive rubbing, chewing, and scratching. Pyoderma is therefore
a frequent complication of other skin diseases, particularly those that cause
intense itching. Antibiotics and medicated shampoos may be included in
treatment plans.
PUPPY DERMATITIS (IMPETIGO AND ACNE)
THE SKIN AND COAT • 157
Impetigo and acne are mild surface skin infections that occur in puppies
under 1 year of age. Impetigo presents with pus-filled blisters on the hairless
parts of the abdomen and the groin. The blisters rupture, leaving thin brown
crusts. Puppies housed in unsanitary quarters are most likely to be infected.
Acne occurs in puppies 3 months of age and older. It can be identified by
purplish red pustules and blackheads that come to a head and drain pus. These
lesions are found on the chin and lower lip, and occasionally in the genital
area, perineum, and groin. Blockage of hair follicles by skin scales and sebum
Pyoderma of the side of
the face, caused by excessive
scratching. The dog
has a severe itchy ear disorder.
A hot spot would
have a similar appearance.