- The first step in curing folliculitis is determining its cause. Folliculitis is usually a secondary infection caused by another problem, such as mange, seborrhea and hormonal skin diseases. If the underlying condition is not resolved, the folliculitis will continue to return.
In order to determine the cause, visit your veterinarian. Diagnostic testing is the only way to find your dog's primary reason for having folliculitis, and your vet can perform these tests. The doctor also can prescribe the best course of treatment. - Folliculitis usually is treated both topically and systemically. Long-haired dogs need to be shaved in order for the treatment shampoos to reach the skin effectively. Bathe your dog two times each day for 10 days with a povidone-iodine shampoo, Betadineor, for example, or a shampoo containing chlorhexidine, such as Nolvasan. Once the folliculitis starts to improve, use only a benzoyl peroxide shampoo, such as OxyDex or Pyoben. Use this treatment once or twice a week until the infection resolves and the skin heals.
Folliculitis also should be treated with oral antibiotics. An infected dog usually is placed on antibiotics for six to eight weeks. The medication is continued for two weeks after the dog's skin looks better. Complete the course of treatment or the folliculitis will not resolve.
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