My dog has a red, bumpy rash near his genitals. Is it serious?

Hi and thanks for using PetCoach! Sorry to hear about Ruby. This looks like bacterial dermatitis, also known as a staph infection. This condition is caused by a bacteria known as Staphylococcus pseudointermedius. It is a normal bacterial resident on the skin of dogs and very commonly causes problems like this in dogs. It can present as a red rash or with red bumps (papules) and if they contain pus they are called pustules. Sometimes the cause is unknown and other times it's caused by external parasites (fleas, ticks, mites, etc), allergies to inhaled allergens/flea bite allergies/or food allergies, contact irritants or allergens, internal organ problems, intestinal parasite problems, nutritional problems, a primary bacterial skin problem, and the list goes on. Most of the time it is hard to narrow down the causative problem. If it presents as a seasonal problem (spring-fall) when it first starts, this is indicative of inhaled allergies called atopy. Typically, each spring it starts and can persist into the fall depending on what the dog is allergic to. It can worsen if the dog gets allergic to more allergens and can become a year-round problem. This is NOT Contagious between dogs or people. this area is small enough that you could probably monitor it unless Ruby is licking it and it's bothering her. If you do decide to take her (or it worsens, or other signs develop) your vet can take a detailed history and do a complete exam with diagnostics to follow if indicated. Sometimes these infections are stubborn and require oral antibiotics and medicines for itching because this condition can become rather itchy and irritating for the pet. Antihistamines or even steroids are used to calm the itch depending upon the level of itching and the suspected cause. Fish oil is also good for the skin and all organs of the body as they are anti-inflammatory. Many other strategies can be employed such as antibacterial shampoos. If you are interested in trying some great supplements for her skin and hair coat please visit this link- http://www.vrshealth.com/canine-products/?petcoach=1977951 Canine Omega Benefits and Cutaneo TruBenefits Use promo code “petcoach20” to receive a discount at checkout.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This looks like a focal infection. You can try to use a medicated shampoo containing chlorhexidine twice weekly for 2 weeks. If there is no improvement or in the meantime this appears to be getting worse, have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. This does not appear to be an emergency. Good luck and have a good night!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This is likely a reaction to something in the environment causing mild dermatitis. I would continue to monitor it for the next 48 hours. If it does not improve or it worsens, have Jules evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. If it is just mild local irritation, it is expected to resolve relatively quickly. Good luck and have a great day!

Hi, thanks for using PetCoach! Poor Chuggers! It’s hard to say if the red bumps are pustules (white center) which indicates a bacterial infection. The rash could be a contact allergy or hives. I would start Benadryl and if the bumps are still there Monday take him to your vet for an exam. Steroids, antibiotics or a topical medication may be needed. I wish Chuggers the best! https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/

Hello. This sounds like Chip has a bit of a staph infection going on. If he is not bothered by the lesions by licking, biting or chewing his skin, then I would try bathing him to try & clear this up. Using a dog shampoo containing 2-4% chlorhexidine has been very effective in controlling skin infections without the use of oral or injectable antibiotics. Many are available online or in the bigger pet stores. The key is to bathe Chip at least twice weekly for 4-6 weeks, & leave the shampoo on for at least 10 minutes before rinsing. This is usually curative. If any of the lesions seem to e enlarging or non-healing, please see your veterinarian. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question. It could be that Harley Moon has an allergic reaction to something outside, could have ringworm, or it could be puppy pyoderma (a skin infection). It's a very good idea to have this seen by a vet this week, and for now, keep an eye on her. If it appears to be itching her, you can can give her an oatmeal bath to see if that helps soothe her skin. I'd also put an Ecollar on her if she starts licking at it. You can make one at home or you can buy one at a pet store. I hope this helps!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This looks like a focal infection. You can try to use a medicated shampoo containing chlorhexidine twice weekly for 2 weeks. If there is no improvement or in the meantime this appears to be getting worse, have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Good luck and have a good night!