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Treatment

If pododermatitis is detected early, simply giving your pet’s living quarters a smooth bottom, and changing the bedding to softer material may improve the prairie dog's condition. Your veterinarian will likely clean any wounds, clip the hair around the affected areas, and trim any overgrown nails.

Antibiotic ointments can be applied to help heal the affected feet. Soaking the feet in warm, disinfecting solution such as chlorhexidine or dimethyl sulfoxide may also prove to be useful. In severe cases of pododermatitis, prairie dogs may need pain medications.

Prevention

Make sure that you clean and dress any wounds or sores regularly as well as provide a sanitary living area for your pet. This will help prevent the development of pododermatitis and assist in a quick recovery.