Topical treatment, such as a strict bathing regimen or application of leave-in products such as spray or mousse, is essential to resolving current infections and preventing future ones, especially in cases of antibiotic resistance.

Benefits of Topical Therapy:

• Physical removal of scale, crust, debris, irritants
• Physical removal of allergens
• Moisturize, restore, repair dysfunctional epidermal barrier
• Reduce active infection
• Reduce recolonization of pathogens
• Provide temporary relief from pruritus
• Decrease odor
• Reduce reliance on systemic antibiotics as sole therapy
• May reduce selection of resistant bacterial strains during antibiotic therapy

Bathing Tips: Remember that bathing is a therapeutic tool, not just a grooming tool.

• Saturate the pet’s coat and skin with water. Begin in affected areas, then move to remainder of body.
• Apply the shampoo to the palms and then spread onto the pet.
• Do not apply the shampoo directly to the pet in a stripe down the back.
• Work the shampoo into the coat and ensure it contacts the skin.
• Do not scrub against the growth pattern of the coat; this can worsen the infection.
• Allow 10 minutes of contact time with the skin (not just the coat).
• Pets can be fed or taken on walks during this time.
• Rinse extremely well with tepid water. Begin with unaffected areas, then move to areas with lesions.
• Towel from head to tail, top to bottom with gentle pressure or use a hair dryer on a cool