Pododermatitis Paw-dcast Show Notes (00:00) John introduces the podcast and Sue introduces Ursula Mayer – the guest on the show. Chapter 1 - Paw-sibilities – introduction to pododermatitis. (02:21) John invites Ursula to introduce herself. Ursula discusses her background and passion for pododermatitis, its prevalence, and its impact on dogs' quality of life. (03:33) When asked to define pododermatitis, Ursula explains that it's inflammation of the paw skin, with a particular emphasis on chronic cases, known as C-PIF. She discusses the various signs to look out for, such as excessive licking, lameness, and specific changes in paw appearance as the condition progresses. (05:31) Sue talks about the complexity of pododermatitis, and Ursula draws parallels with chronic otitis in terms of the multifaceted factors involved. She emphasises the importance of considering predisposing factors, primary causes including orthopaedic issues, secondary influences, and perpetuating factors in diagnosing and managing the condition effectively. Chapter 2 - Paw-sibilities - Orthopaedic Influences and Breed Predispositions (06:57) Sue asks Ursula to explain how orthopaedic diseases can contribute to pododermatitis in dogs. Ursula explains that pain from orthopaedic conditions alters weight bearing, causing dogs to adjust their stance and potentially rub their paws together, leading to inflammation and abnormal walking patterns. She goes on to discuss specific orthopaedic diseases, including elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and arthritis affecting joints such as toes, carpus, tarsus, elbows, hips, and the back. These conditions can disrupt normal weight distribution and contribute to the development of pododermatitis. (08:35) Sue further illustrates with an example and Ursula emphasizes the importance of referring chronic cases to orthopaedic specialists for thorough examinations and imaging. She acknowledges the complexity of diagnosing older dogs with multiple affected areas, stressing the need for integrated care across disciplines to effectively manage pododermatitis. (09:56) John asks if this is just dogs and Ursula confirms that while cats can also suffer from pododermatitis, the chronic form discussed, known as C-PIF, predominantly affects dogs and not cats. John then asks about breed predispositions, particularly in relation to posture-related issues in Labradors. Ursula elaborates that certain breeds, notably larger and heavier ones like bulldogs, French bulldogs, and pugs, are commonly affected. Labradors and Golden Retrievers also constitute a significant portion of cases. The characteristics such as short, bristly coats and broad, flat paws, may contribute to their susceptibility to the condition. Ursula notes that even without orthopaedic diseases, these breeds' anatomical traits appear to play a role in the development of pododermatitis. (12:20) Sue reflects on a study involving bulldogs walking on pressure plates, noting that those without interdigital lesions tended to walk more upright. She emphasises that dogs with flatter feet and heavier builds are more prone to issues due to their posture, suggesting a correlation between anatomical features and pododermatitis. She further discusses how these factors influence investigation and treatment approaches. Ursula agrees, highlighting the significant role of allergies alongside orthopaedic diseases in pododermatitis cases. She notes the complexity in distinguishing between underlying orthopaedic conditions and inherent anatomical predispositions in certain breeds. Ursula shares a case involving a dog initially treated for allergies, later developing orthopaedic issues that exacerbated pododermatitis, illustrating the interplay between these factors. (14:47) Sue outlines the investigative process, starting with a comprehensive history and dermatological examination, incorporating orthopaedic evaluations based on findings. Ursula explains her approach, emphasising the importance of ruling out issues, particularly Demodex, through rigorous testing methods. She discusses predisposing factors such as weight and breed characteristics, and systematically examines for primary diseases like allergies, orthopaedic issues, and endocrine disorders. Ursula stresses the need to assess secondary infections and carefully inspect paw conditions, especially ventrally, to identify specific dermatological and orthopaedic indicators. Chapter 3 – Paws-itive outcomes - Diagnostic and Treatment Approaches (18:24) Sue asks about infection management in pododermatitis cases. Ursula explains that for superficial cases of pododermatitis, she primarily employs topical treatments. However, in chronic cases where deep pyoderma is present, systemic antibiotics are often necessary. She emphasises the importance of not relying solely on antibiotics without addressing underlying factors, as this can lead to recurring infections and antibiotic resistance. In deciding ...
