Bacterial Allergies Staph bacteria that are normally present in the environment can produce an allergic response in some dogs. The animal s immune system should recognize the bacteria and keep it from creating a problem. However, in animals with poor immune system function, the bacteria can invade the deeper layers of the skin and cause an infection called pyoderma. The signs can range from raised circular lesions to generalized flakiness and hair loss. Intense itching usually accompanies the condition.
Staph allergies can also be secondary to some primary allergic condition.
For example a dog that has a flea infestation will initially itch due to the allergic reaction from the fleas, then develop a Staph infection and itch from the bacterial infection as well as the flea infestation. Staph infections can be treated with antibiotics, but can easily reoccur. Your veterinarian can prescribe topical as well as oral medications to treat the problem. Some pets require treatment with a Staph vaccine to help bolster the immune systems ability to fight the bacteria. Contact Allergies Contact allergies are not commonly seen in pets.