Staph Infection After Swimming in a Canal

Staph skin infections almost always have an underlying cause, so it helps to ask your vet what might be making your Lab's belly skin vulnerable. Allergies are the most common cause. Skin that stays wet, or is irritated by water or plants, can also play a part.

After swimming, rinse your dog with clean water and dry the belly well. If infections keep coming back, ask your vet whether a chlorhexidine shampoo or wipes once or twice a week would help. Specialist guidelines recommend regular antiseptic bathing for dogs with repeat infections.

Canals and other still water can also carry germs and harmful algae, so avoid letting him swim in water that looks green or scummy, and don't let him drink it.

See pyoderma (staph infection).

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.