Although bacterial infections are relatively common in dogs, most dog owners don’t know basic home remedies for dog staph infection: the most common bacterial infection of them all. Not only is staph infection the most prevalent bacterial skin infection in dogs, but it is also a zoonotic risk. That means there is a risk of bacterial transmission between dogs and humans.
In this article, I’ll discuss some of the simplest, yet most-effective home remedies for dog staph infection. Of course, if your vet recommends antibiotic ointments, antibacterial medications, special shampoos, etc., you should use them on your dog. But, only administering traditional treatments can make things worse for your dog. Here’s why.
Do you want to know more about natural home remedies for dog staph infection? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page.
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What is a Staph Infection?
A staph infection is caused by staph bacteria, which naturally resides on the skin and upper respiratory tract of dogs of all ages. However, when the skin becomes irritated due to constant itching and scratching, possibly from flea bites or allergies, it can pave the way for an opportunistic spread of staph.
These infections can range from a superficial staph infection, which is generally minor but can lead to more serious issues like blood poisoning if left untreated. The good news is, staph infections aren’t usually contagious, but it’s always best to keep an eye out for signs of infection to ensure your dog’s health remains tip-top.
Areas of Staph Infections in Dogs
Staph infections can pop up in various areas on your dog’s body, including areas where the skin is irritated due to allergies or constant contact with harsh cleaning products. It’s not uncommon to see these infections in dogs who have fleas, as the bacteria can be transferred when a dog licks or scratches the infected area.
Common areas include around the mouth, the folds of the skin, and even in your dog’s upper respiratory tract. It’s essential to monitor these areas regularly, especially if your dog has a history of skin irritation or allergies.
The Importance of Knowing Home Remedies for Dog Staph Infection
How Staph Infections Weaken the Immune System
Staph infections in dogs are caused by the Staphylococcus bacteria. Staphylococcus bacteria attack healthy cells in the dog’s skin or upper respiratory tract when their immune systems are already weak.
Risks with Traditional Treatments
The traditional veterinary approach to treating the Staphylococcus bacteria that causes staph infection is administering antibiotics. Certain antibiotics like clindamycin, cephalexin, or erythromycin can end up harming a dog’s already-weakened immune system, instead of solving the infection.
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria
Many new strains of the Staphylococcus bacteria have become antibiotic resistant. Using stronger and stronger antibiotic drugs does not kill these bacteria. Instead, the antibiotics may destroy the “good” bacteria in your dog’s gut biome.
The best way to treat staph infections in 2023 is not to send your dog to the vet, days after recognizing the symptoms. It is early detection and constant at-home care. Plus, every dog staph infection home remedy that I will discuss in this article will be helpful for your dog’s skin, even if they are not severely infected. That means there are no downsides.
These natural remedies are also cheaper, easier to access, and unlike antibiotic drugs, they pose no serious side-effect risks. Here are 8 effective home remedies for dog staph infection: 3 oral and 5 topical.
What Causes Staph?
Understanding what causes staph is the first step in preventing it. Often, it’s a secondary infection that occurs when the skin gets irritated, possibly from synthetic ingredients and supplements in dog food or from external factors like flea bites.
Moreover, weakened immune systems can also be a culprit, as they are less able to fight off bacteria, making it easier for an infection to occur. This is why bolstering your dog’s immune system through a balanced diet and regular exercise is key in preventing staph.
Symptoms of Staph Infection in Dogs
If you think your dog has a staph infection, it’s crucial to know the symptoms to look out for. Common signs include red, irritated skin, and a tendency to scratch the affected area incessantly.
In more severe cases, symptoms might escalate to include pus-filled lesions and a foul odor emanating from the infected area. It’s always best to consult with a vet if you notice any of these signs to determine the best course of action for treating your dog.
Prevention of Dog Staph Infections
Prevention is always better than cure, isn’t it? To prevent staph infections, start with the basics like bathing your dog regularly with a medicated shampoo designed to soothe and heal irritated skin.
You might also consider natural options such as applying a few drops of almond oil to soothe the skin or making a calming bath with ¼ cup of powdered organic oatmeal. These home remedies may offer relief and help prevent the onset of a staph infection.
Moreover, ensure your home environment is clean and that dog toys and bedding are washed regularly to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria.
Top Home Remedies for Dog Staph Infection
These home remedies can be applied directly to the infected dog’s skin.
#1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Using apple cider vinegar for staph infection in dogs is an age-old tactic. Apple cider vinegar has a long history of being used on both dogs and humans for disinfecting wounds, treating ear infections, etc. That is because apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, a powerful natural canine antibiotic that can instantly kill or spay Staphylococcus bacteria.
Here’s how you can use apple cider vinegar for treating staph infection in your dog:
- Take 100 milliliters of vinegar and 100 milliliters of water
- Mix it up in a spray bottle
- Locate the affected areas on your dog’s skin (spots with redness and rashes)
- Spray the solution on the affected areas
Never apply concentrated vinegar directly onto your dog’s skin. Spray the solution two times a day for fast results.
#2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains fatty acids like myristic acid, caprylic acid, lauric acid, and more. These acids have antimicrobial properties. They can prevent the growth of bacterial infections on a dog’s dry skin. Coconut oil also has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Massaging it on the affected areas can numb the pain caused by rashes and hot spots.
#3. Oatmeal Bath
Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties. When a dog takes an oatmeal bath, a protective barrier forms on its skin. This protective layer also keeps moisture particles locked in and reduces itchiness and dryness. To give an infected dog an oatmeal bath, take the following steps:
- Grind unflavored oats (preferably in a blender) until the powder is fine enough to turn milky as soon as it absorbs water
- Fill the tub with warm water
- Mix the oat powder
- Place the affected dog inside the tub
- Pour the solution on the dog’s body
- Gently massage the affected areas
- Let the dog soak for 10 to 15 minutes
- Rinse the oat powder solution with warm water
- Pat the dog dry with a towel
The amount of oatmeal powder you will need for this process depends on your dog’s size.
#4. Turmeric and Manuka Honey
Raw, unpasteurized honey is antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. That’s because honey contains a super-strong natural antiseptic: hydrogen peroxide. Manuka honey is a form of honey that has very high concentrations of this antiseptic. So strong is the healing power of Manuka honey, the FDA authorized its use in wound dressings back in 2015.
Now, imagine combining this highly effective natural antiseptic with one of the most powerful antioxidants in the world: turmeric. That is right, mix Manuka honey with powdered turmeric and apply it directly on the affected areas of your dog’s skin. This homemade solution will do wonders for a staph-infected dog’s skin.
#5. Pure Oregano Oil
Pure oregano oil is extracted using steam distillation. It has extremely strong antibacterial, properties. Mix 2 drops of this oil with a teaspoon of almond or olive oil. Apply the mixture directly to the affected areas on the dog’s skin. It will stop the growth of bacteria and protect your skin from free radical damage. You can find pure oregano oil at an Italian food store.
#6. Povidone-Iodine
The mighty Povidone-Iodine, a type of antiseptic that can be a real game-changer in the fight against staph infections. It’s gentle on your dog’s skin, making it a great option for topical treatment.
To use this remedy, dilute the Povidone-Iodine with water until it looks like weak tea, and then apply it to the affected area. You can do a skin test first to ensure your dog doesn’t have an adverse reaction. This treatment can be repeated daily for a few weeks of treatment to help clear up minor staph infections.
#7. Garlic
Garlic isn’t just for warding off vampires; it’s also a natural antibiotic that can help in treating your dog’s staph infection. It stimulates the liver and immune system, giving your dog a fighting chance against infections like staph.
To use garlic safely, make a tea from dried garlic and apply it externally as a tincture. Remember, garlic should never be given orally to dogs as it can be toxic in large quantities. Always consult with your vet before introducing a new remedy into your dog’s routine.
#8. Culinary Herbs
Next up, we have culinary herbs, which are not just great for seasoning your meals but also have healing properties that can aid in staph infection treatment. Herbs such as thyme and oregano can be used to make a healing tea.
To prepare this remedy, steep 2 tsp of dried calendula leaves in hot water and let it cool. Once cooled, apply it to the affected area using a clean cloth. This can help in reducing the inflammation and soothing the irritated skin.
#9. Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids can moisturize your dog’s skin from within and prevent dry and itchy skin. The best sources of these essential fatty acids are cold-water fish. Consider adding cold-water fish like salmon to your dog’s diet.
Combine these home remedies to give your dog some relief from the staph infection symptoms. Hopefully, they will be able to stop your dog’s infection at an early stage!
#10. Use Probiotics
Last but certainly not least, we have probiotics, the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut that play a vital role in their overall health. Probiotics can help strengthen your dog’s immune system, making it harder for infections to take hold.
Adding a probiotic supplement to your dog’s diet can be a great way to prevent future infections. You can find these supplements in various forms, including powders and chews, to suit your dog’s preferences.
How Do the Vet Treat Staph Infections in Dogs?
When it comes to treating staph infections, vets have a plethora of options at their disposal, depending on the severity of the infection. It’s not uncommon for a vet to prescribe antibiotics to help fight off the infection, but as we know, this can sometimes lead to a cycle of stronger and stronger drugs being needed.
But here’s a little secret from the dog mom diary; sometimes, vets opt for a more natural route too! Yes, you heard it right. Some vets might recommend adding a teaspoon of almond oil to your dog’s food to boost their immune system and help them fight off the infection from within. This approach is especially seen in dogs with allergies, where a common staph infection can occur more frequently.
However, it’s always a good idea to follow the vet’s advice to a T, because they know what’s best for your furry friend in the long run.
When Should You See the Vet?
Now, as much as we love going the natural route, there are times when a vet’s intervention is non-negotiable. If you notice that the infection is spreading rapidly, or if your dog seems to be in a lot of pain, it’s time to get professional help.
Dogs with allergies are more prone to get a staph infection, and sometimes, home remedies might not be enough. If you find that the infection is not responding to home treatments or if your dog has a type of staph infection that is more severe, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. Remember, early intervention can prevent complications and help your dog recover faster.
Final Take
As we wrap up this heart-to-heart, remember that while home remedies are fantastic and often work wonders, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice. It’s always best to consult with a vet, especially when dealing with infections that can potentially escalate.
So, dear dog parents, while we are all for the best natural remedies, let’s also keep our vet’s number on speed dial, shall we? Because a happy dog is a healthy dog, and nothing should come in the way of those wagging tails and happy, slobbery kisses!
Stay tuned for more doggy tips and tricks, and remember to always shower your fur babies with love and care. Until next time, happy parenting!
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