GALLERY OF DOGS
AUSTIN
AUSTIN arrived on March 20th at WFTRM Chicago. He is 3 years old, about 24 pounds and truly adorable. I was aware he had some allergy issues and would scratch himself silly – but not prepared to see how extensive his skin was. He is a friendly guy with everyone, has a charming personality and lovable. Austin’s skin was in serious SOS. We went to the vet and a cytology showed Bacteria, Yeast and Pollen. A Culture was sent out to determine what type of bacteria, what it is resistant to and the best antibiotic and treatment. He received a Cytopoint injection and started a course of Cefpodoxime, Ketoconazole and getting Malaseb baths. He is an owner surrender who moved from Texas to Florida where they have been living since early 2025 and during this time his atopy progressed out of control. They took very good care of him with consistent vet work, preventatives and trips to the vet. This vet clinic sporadically prescribed steroids, a cytopoint and even Apoquel and probably should have referred the owners to a vet dermatologist. Once the skin barrier has been broken from scratching and infection sets in – the treatment must be precise and followed strictly. His issues appear to be environmental.
On our trip to the vet on the 24th he received a Cytopoint Injection and a cytology of his skin which showed bacteria and yeast. A Culture was sent out to determine the exact type of bacteria and what is the best antibiotic to treat it. And the results are back and Isolate 1 was Staphylococcus (staph infection) however there was another uncommon bacteria: Enterococcus faecium. This bacteria can demonstrate multidrug resistance making treatment a challenge. The drug it is susceptible to is Doxycycline and he is now on that and continue on Cefpodoxime until recheck.
Austin had an appointment with Animal Dermatology Clinic in Wheaton, Illinois and our luck they had a cancellation on May 7th and we jumped on it. A few days prior to this appointment he had scratched his neck region intensely leaving it red, greasy, and severe crusting. No treatment was applied prior to the visit. He had a full exam, Skin Scrapings, Cytology and Trichogram with no significant findings. No infection, yeast or inflammatory cells. The assessment was likely atopic dermatitis but due to his severe crusting it suggests a second component. The plan going forward: Rule out Sarcoptic Mange or Scabies. He had his bath on Friday and the first application of Revolution and then every 2 weeks . Rule out autoimmune disease or other dermatopathy like pemphigus or sebaceous adenitis. A skin biopsy would be required to make a definitive diagnosis.
Austin went home with a prescription of Temaril-P which is a steroid component. Before starting him on this have decided to schedule the skin punch biopsy as they need to be clear of medications prior. A skin punch biopsy on a dog is a minor diagnostic procedure where the vet uses a cylindrical tool—similar to a tiny cookie cutter—to remove a full-thickness, circular plug of skin. It is primarily used to diagnose skin diseases, investigate unexplained rashes, or determine if a mass is cancerous. He will have local anesthetic (numbing the area) along with mild sedation or general anesthesia to keep him still and comfortable. Because the sample size is usually between 4 mm and 8 mm, the site is usually closed with just one or two small stitches. The tissue sample is preserved in formalin and sent to a veterinary laboratory, where a board-certified veterinary pathologist will examine it. Results typically take 1 to 2 weeks. Austin went to Midwest Animal Hospital on May 12th for the skin punch biopsies where 5 separate locations were taken and then sent off. Hoping for answers as he is still itchy, greasy and even scratched out a couple stitches on one spot.
Enterococcus species, including E. faecium, are part of the microflora, but when found in skin infections (pyoderma), they often act as secondary invaders to other bacteria like Staphylococcus. While Staphylococcus is the primary culprit in most canine pyoderma, Enterococcus species are considered opportunistic bacteria that can take advantage of compromised skin, such as cases involving allergies or chronic irritation. Dogs primarily acquire Enterococcus faecalis from their own gastrointestinal tract, where it naturally exists as part of the normal gut flora. However, under certain conditions, this bacterium can spread and cause infections in other parts of the body. One of the most common modes of transmission is fecal contamination. If a dog’s feces contain E. faecalis, the bacteria can spread to the urinary tract, wounds, or other vulnerable areas through direct contact. This often happens when a dog grooms itself after defecation or comes into contact with contaminated bedding, floors, or other surfaces. Dogs frequently use their mouths to explore their surroundings, making it easy for bacteria to spread. Immunocompromised dogs, those recovering from surgery, or those on long-term antibiotics are at a higher risk of developing infections from E. faecalis.
Austin’s Visit with the Vet Dermatologist on June 2nd went very well. The 3 week course of Temaril P worded wonders for his skin. After reviewing his testing and biopsies the diagnosis is Atopic Dermatitis or simply Environmental Allergies. He did well on the course of Temaril-P and his itching had stopped but when he went down to every other day it was starting to return. The goal was to find a non-steroidal therapy to manage his anti-inflammatory needs. Austin started on Zenrelia 8.5 mg tablets which he will take once a day and after week one it is working great. He will need to be on something long term to control his allergies and so far this is it. He looks and feels wonderful. I was also given more Temaril-P that can be used every other day if he runs into a rough patch or time. He also is a candidate for more frequent baths but he is so good for them. Austin is such an amazing 3-year-old boy. He is funny, quirky, well behaved in the house, obedient, gets along with other dogs, loves toys and playing and looking for critters outside and has just a happy let’s live life and have fun personality. He loves going in the car, growling at the TV if there is an animal on, protecting you from the vaccuum and garden hose. He has spent 3.5 months with me at WFTRM Chicago getting back in shape and now ready for his Forever Home which would be better in a northern climate due to his allergies and getting a reprieve from the heat, humidity and bugs. His coat is all fluffy and soft, grew back nicely and is now Naked but Not Afraid. No more fleece shirts for him for now. What a treasure this boy is and he looks like a stuffed animal with brown eye patches. He has his toys spread all over, especially his big capybara so he can shake him silly. We just love him so much and his new home will adore him too.