A MRSA infection is a staph infection. The initials MRSA stand for methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus and this is a severe infection that may be fatal in canines, as the dog won’t respond to a series of medications. However, a number of treatments may be tested and the dog’s condition may be cured.
Symptoms of Staph Infection in Dogs
The staph infection is caused by the bacteria known as staphylococci and may affect dogs that have a compromised immune system. The infection can cause a series of symptoms such as:
- Skin irritation
- Ulceration of the skin
- Blisters filled with pus
- Scaling
- Hypopigmentation
- Hair loss
The condition is typically treated with antibiotics and removing the hair in the affected areas, applying some topical treatment as well.
MRSA in Dogs
The MRSA is a type of staph infection that cannot be treated with certain types of medication. The infectious agents have built immunity to certain antibiotics and may be due to the fact that the dog has taken an incomplete antibiotic treatment. The staph bacteria will grow at an alarming rate and the infection may be difficult to control. The bacteria will enter the blood flow and will be toxic for the dog, which will lead to death.
Symptoms of MRSA Infection
Once the dog is diagnosed with a staph infection, he will be given antibiotics to prevent the bacteria from entering the blood flow. However, if the dog has MRSA, the bacteria will have immunity for antibiotics and will not be eliminated with this type of treatment. If the dog has MRSA, he will not show any signs of improvement, which should be visible if the dog responds to the antibiotic treatment. The dog will be lethargic and may even vomit and have severe symptoms, depending on what areas of the body are affected by the bacteria.
Management of MRSA
If the dog is diagnosed with MRSA, he needs to be isolated and kept in a clean environment. The infection can be transmitted to humans and dogs, so you will have to be extra cautious. Topical and oral treatment will be needed and the vet may test several treatments before finding the one that works.
Preventing MRSA in Dogs
An MRSA infection may be prevented by maintaining the dog and his environment clean. Regular grooming is also necessary. If you notice any wounds or cuts, you should clean these and provide immediate treatment. Antibiotic cream should be applied. If you start an oral antibiotic treatment, make sure the dog takes all the prescribed meds and don’t interrupt the treatment when you consider the dog’s condition is improved. This can help the bacteria develop immunity to the prescribed treatment. If your dog has undergone surgery, you have to make sure to keep the wound clean and cover it with bandages, to prevent the dog from chewing the wound. An Elizabethan collar may be recommended if the dog attempts to remove the bandages.