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Surface wounds are fairly common in pets, but they can become problematic if they become infected and are left untreated.

Surface wounds are fairly common in dogs, but they can become problematic if they become infected and are left untreated. While most irritations can often be treated with ointments and creams, an abscess can form if an irritation worsens or if bacteria invades the skin. An abscess can also occur when an animal becomes infected from a variety of injuries, and can be found on virtually any part of a dog’s body.

The condition or disease described in this medical article can affect both dogs and cats. If you would like to learn more about how this disease affects cats, please visit this page in the PetMD health library.

Symptoms and Types

Pasteurella multocida is the most common bacteria to cause skin infections. Another cause of skin irritation in dogs is the Staphylococcus intermedius, which can usually be treated with topical ointments. However, if either of these bacteria make their way deep into the skin, infection becomes a serious problem. A painful abscess will form in response to the bacterial invasion if the wound is left untreated.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will take a swab test of the infected area to determine the strain of bacteria present. In addition, a standard blood test will be performed to see if the infection has migrated to the bloodstream. Once a proper diagnosis is made, the veterinarian will prescribe an appropriate treatment plan.