Secondary superficial pyoderma is common. Boarding the animal at the hospital for 1-2 weeks is usually the best way to get avoidance. It is important to shampoo the animal before the beginning of this period to remove possible residual material from the skin and to hasten the recovery. Implicating a specific allergen is difficult and requires cooperation with the owner to identify possible sources. If the feet are the only part of the body that is involved then is likely that the offending substance is something on which the dog is walking.
Patch testing is difficult but it allows testing several substances.
The potential allergens should be held in close contact with the skin for 48 hours. The area should be shaved 1-2 days before the test. Usually a total body wrap is the best way to achieve the contact. Deep chested dogs and also very active dogs are difficult to patch test. Avoidance Topical steroids Parenteral corticosteroids Pentoxifylline.