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 which was key in stopping his intense scratching. He also had 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. 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. This is why it is so important to have a culture sent out when the dog has pyoderma. The drug it is susceptible to is Doxycycline and he is now on that and continue on Cefpodoxime until recheck.
Austin had a vet recheck on April 7th and is doing really great. His skin is healing and looks so much better. The hair on his face has grown back and the neck and body are taking a little longer. He will continue another course of Doxycycline to ensure both bacterial infections are gone. Austin is the happiest little boy who adores toys, playing, spreading his toys out all over, shaking them. When he sees a dog on the television he will grab a toy, growl and shake his toy hard. He is such a character – chases the vacuum while cleaning, biting the water from the hose, does a funny moon walk dance backwards when he wants to go outside. Austin loves to wear his fleece shirts which he has many colors. He excitedly runs up, puts his head inside the neck and then his legs. He is a good cuddler too and reminds me of a curly soft Teddy Bear. He will give you quick sloppy kisses because you know, he is a busy boy – got to get back to playing. He is friendly with other dogs, gentle and respectful and has the sweetest disposition. Austin is a cheerful, carefree Wire Fox boy, likes to go in the car, visiting places and meeting other people and dogs. He is the ultimate companion, best friend, travel pal to take anywhere and everywhere and the most adorable little guy ever.
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.