Impetigo

[Pep]

My 11 week old Lab has, within the last 24 hours, developed Puppy Impetigo (Puppy Pyoderma, Juvenile Pustular Dermatitis) on her hairless stomach. Isopropyl has been suggested as a possible treatment. I was wondering if this would include Isocol anti-bacterial lotion? As far as I am aware Isocol is 100% Isopropyl Alcohol. Should I dilute with water before I dab it on the spots or apply straight to the skin? Are there any risk factors I should know about? As I wish to treat the area ASAP but do not wish to harm my puppy, advice would be greatly appreciated. Cheers!

[poodlefan]

Unless this has been recommended by your vet, I wouldn't touch it.

I thought this kind of issue required topical or oral antibiotics. Have you seen a vet?

[Pep]

She's due to see the vet next week. Besides the spots on her belly she's in good health. Her living conditions are usually pristine and she is by nature a clean dog. The bacterial infection has most likely arisen as a result of the recent rains we've had here in QLD. Whilst she was kept fairly dry indoors, she still had to go outside to do her business. Despite our vigilant drying routine she's inevitably been a little damp which, I am assuming, is why the impetigo set in.

Topical or oral antibiotics are only prescribed in severe cases. This is a mild dose which if caught now will clear fairly quickly. The general treatment is hydrogen peroxide, chlorhexidine, or benzoyl peroxide applied twice daily. It's just that I read that isopropyl is a suitable alternative. I was wondering if anyone had tried Isocol???

Are there any brand names which are better than others? I am open to suggestions.

Edited August 27, 2007 by Pep

[Staff'n'Toller]

Are there any brand names which are better than others? I am open to suggestions.

Here's one - go see your Vet. No-one here will prescribe over the internet....it's ummmm......illegal!!

Edited August 27, 2007 by Staff'n'Toller

[Pep]

Here's one - go see your Vet. No-one here will prescribe over the Internet....it's ummmm......illegal!!

As mentioned I already have a vet's appointment. I was not asking for a 'prescription'. I must say I find your response a little harsh. I was enquiring in regards to non-prescription ointments and lotions, the sort which are purchased over the counter at the local supermarket or pet store.

This is not my first puppy. I am a seasoned dog owner (40 years plus). Over time treatments change. My last puppy was 10 years ago so I was simply trying to ascertain current recommendations. It is only through application that we learn what works and what doesn't, what is harmful and what is not.

I shall assume that you misinterpreted the original message and thus not take offence at the impolite reply. It certainly is not my intent to rub people the wrong way. I am here to discuss puppy issues in an open and friendly forum. I hope you agree.

Edited August 28, 2007 by Pep

[Pep]

Have just returned from the Vet. Given the initial negative response I received to my post, I thought it best to confirm the diagnosis. I am happy to say that my suspicions were correct. My pup does have a mild case of Puppy Pyoderma (Impetigo) and, as anticipated, does not require medication.

Whilst anti-bacterial lotions can be used to treat this condition (I've since found out that Isopropyl Alcohol should be diluted - which was my original forum enquiry), my Vet suggested I try the old fashioned remedy of warm salty water. It will help to clean the spots and at the same time is 100% safe for the dog. The spots are not contagious nor do they make my puppy ill so she'll be able to go to puppy training as usual. Best of all I got the reassurance I was seeking.

Needless to say I am pleased I brought her appointment forward. Despite my experience with dogs, a new puppy is like starting the process all over again. Each pup is unique and it goes without saying, you're never too old to learn!

Edited August 28, 2007 by Pep

[Rhi*Jak*Ed]

Good for you pep - I'm pleased to hear that she is doing ok.

Staff'n'Toller - do you happen to work at the Deception Bay vet surgery? One of the vet nurses there has your bedside manner.