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Why does my dog keep getting stomach abscesses and infections?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dalmatian | Male | unneutered | 1 year old | 65 lbs

My 1 year old Dalmatian has a stomach abscess/pus filled surface wound on his stomach. This is his fourth. The first three my husband (gen surg doctor) cleaned and treated and they healed. After the third he got a round of clindamycin and seemed great. Now a month later he has a fourth. Should we be concerned about an internal issue causing these infections or is it normal?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 1st, 2018

Hello. In such a young dog, I am not necessarily concerned about an internal issue such as a metabolic disease or cancer, but more so a still maturing immune system. This might just be a simple issue of boosting immunity, especially gut immunity with added probiotics. Gut-associated lymphoid tissue ( GALT ) has been getting more attention lately, both in animals & people to improve overall health. Adding a probiotic like Fortiflora may be a great idea. And to reduce skin bacteria, bathing Remy in an antibacterial shampoo, one with 4% chlorhexidine once or twice a week is recommended. It goes against convention to bathe a dog this frequently, but it is sometimes needed & it definitely cuts back on the need for oral antibiotics. Try this for a couple of months & see if the lesions stop. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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