Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My dog has a rash from yard spray. Home treatment or vet visit?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 8 years and 1 month old | 16 lbs

Hello, I just moved to Florida in a gated community where they do all the yard work for you. I noticed last week that they spray the plants with some sort of herbicide. Today I noticed rashes and blisters/pustules near his genitals. When he pees he puts his genitals over those plants. What is the recommended procedure? Do I wash him with antibacterial soap and put hydrocortisone or does he need to take a visit to the vet? Thank you very much.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 10th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry Charlie is having this problem. It is likely a contact rash and not usually a terribly threatening issue. I would recommend bathing him in your regular shampoo with a good rinse after. If it is very itchy-Benadryl is generally accepted as safe for dogs and you can find a dosing for this medication online by searching the Merck Veterinary Manual. Triple antibiotic ointment is considered safe topically if your pet is not allowed to ingest any of it as well. If the rash spreads further or worsens quickly or you notice any other issues or abnormal behaviors besides this rash-generally this then warrants a trip to your vet to stave off symptoms and be treated for a potential reaction. I hope this helps and that Charlie feels better soon!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog's matted fur bled after cutting. Should I take him to the vet?
Did your pet bleed after matted fur removal? A trusted vet explains potential infection, wound care, and why immediate veterinary attention is crucial for healing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My ferret has bloody urine and bladder stones. Is it an emergency?
Ferret has bloody urine, possibly bladder stones? A certified vet advises if waiting until tomorrow for an appointment is safe, especially if he's still urinating.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Found a worm in my new chick's water dish. Is it a parasite?
Concerned about a worm in your new chick's water dish? A certified vet discusses possible parasites and recommends a fecal exam for your young chickens.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored