My female dog has vulva bumps and is licking. Is it an infection?

Question

Licking at vagina, zit like postules at vulva area, already on low dose anti biotic, was told to put anti-fungal cream on it. Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | spayed | 1 year and 3 months old | 75 lbs

Destini R. Holloway, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Poor Hatty. I can imagine somewhat what this looks like based on your description; however a picture does help us get a good idea of what is going on with your pet. Despite that, it sounds like Hatty may have a bacterial infection, which can be caused by a contact dermatitis or even a hooded vulva (a vulva that has extra skin around it). It sounds like your vet is treating for both bacteria and a fungal infection to cover all possibilities. However if it had been 7 days with no improvement, or if things seem to be getting worse, then it’s best to get things re-evaluated by your vet or get a second opinion by another veterinarian. This would involve having a physical examination done, because we have to check for any anatomical defects like the hooded vulva I mentioned earlier, and also get skin testing done as well. If this is mostly a bacterial infection, a skin culture would be the next step to determine what specific antibiotic will work to clear up this infection. Also antibacterial wipes (ie Chlorhexidine wipes) are often helpful for bacterial infections around the vulva, which are available only through your vet. If there is an underlying allergy causing this, then allergy medicine needs to be prescribed as well. However if this is an anatomical issue (ie Hooded vulva), then consistent wiping around the vulva is a conservative treatment that can keep infections at bay, but generally surgical removal of the excess skin is the only way to permanently fix that issue. I hope that this is helpful for you to know what next steps are needed for Harry’s care. If you would like to share a photo for more specific guidelines or if you need to share more information through a private consultation, feel free to send in the request. We are here to help and to get you on the right track towards your pets care. Best wishes and take care.

My female dog has vulva bumps and is licking. Is it an infection?

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