UTI Due To Vaginal Fold Dermatitis In Bulldogs

By: Dr. Roy Kraemer |
DVM, Bulldog Specialist Veterinarian

Subject: Seeking Guidance for Rosie’s Vaginal Folds & Hood 🐾😟 #BulldogHealth #VaginalCare

Dear Dr. Kraemer, I’m reaching out about my sweet bulldog, Rosie, who seems to be experiencing some issues with her vaginal folds and hood. I’ve noticed redness and irritation in the area, and she appears uncomfortable. 😟 I would greatly appreciate your guidance on how to care for Rosie’s vaginal folds and hood problems.

Your expertise means everything to us! 🙏🏼 Thank you for always being there for our furry companions.

Warm regards, The Rose Familyh & Rosie 🐶💖 #BulldogMom #VaginalHealth

Vaginal Fold Moist Dermatitis (VFMD) is a prevalent concern among female bulldogs, stemming from their distinct anatomy. This condition can be notably uncomfortable for them, underscoring the importance of addressing and managing it effectively.

Ulcerative bulldog vaginal skinfold moist dermatitis

UTI due to Vaginal Fold Dermatitis in Bulldogs:  CAUSE

  1. Moisture & Heat serve as common culprits for Vaginal Fold Moist Dermatitis (VFMD) in female bulldogs. The deep skin folds in the genital area create an environment conducive to bacterial and yeast growth, fostering infections and inflammation.
  2. Hooded Vulva: The presence of a hooded vulva restricts airflow, exacerbating the issue by compounding the trapped moisture problem.
  3. Obesity: obesity can intensify VFMD as excess weight increases the depth of skin folds.
  4. Diet: certain dietary factors may also play a role, influencing yeast overgrowth and contributing to the development of this uncomfortable condition in female bulldogs.
  5. Stress: The impact of stress lies in its ability to suppress the immune system, weakening the body’s defenses against pathogenic organisms

UTI Due to Vaginal Fold Dermatitis in Bulldogs: PRESENTATION

  • REDNESS: around the vulva but mostly inside the folds
  • INFLAMMATION & INFECTION: bacterial and yeast organisms
  • ITCH & PAIN: rubbing, scooting, biting of the back end
  • BAD SMELL: A strong, unpleasant odor of the infected folds and urine
  • MOIST & DAMP
  • FREQUENT URINATION: caused by the urinary tract infection, pain, discomfort and irritation
  • CLOUDY DISCOLORED URINE: urine might be bloody, cloudy, or dark yellow
  • VAGINAL DISCHARGE: mucus or puss

 Bulldog Large Infected bladder

As with all bulldogs and Fr. bulldogs, the deep skinfolds and warm, humid, damp, and moist conditions are breeding grounds for bacteria and yeast.

UTI due to Vaginal Fold Dermatitis in Bulldogs: PREVENTION

Dry: To prevent Vaginal Fold Moist Dermatitis (VFMD) or manage mild cases, it’s crucial to keep the folds dry.

Topical bully antiseptic therapy could be employed and complemented with therapeutic supplements to effectively address the condition and promote healing in the affected areas.

Bulldog Skinfolds Bundle - Basic

BULLDOG THERAPEUTIC ANTISEPTIC TOPICALS

For more severe cases, the recommendation is to use topical therapeutics daily

BULLDOG THERAPEUTIC SUPPLEMENTS

UTI due to Vaginal Fold Dermatitis in Bulldogs: SURGERY

The primary objective of this procedure is to eliminate excess skin folds around the vulva, restore a more anatomically normal position, and enhance airflow.

By doing so, it promotes the

  • Drying of the area
  • Minimizes moisture trapping
  • Minimizes bacterial growth

Ultimately preventing frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

  1. Anesthesia:
    • Performed under general anesthesia to ensure the comfort and safety of your bulldog
  2. Resection of Excess Skin:
    • Excess skin surrounding the vulva is meticulously removed in a crescent or horseshoe shape, eliminating the “hooded” appearance.
    • Removal of underlying fatty tissue may also be undertaken.
  3. Suturing:
    • The remaining skin edges are skillfully sutured together, creating a tighter and more open vulvar area.

Bulldog Vaginal Skin Fold Dermatitis Vaginoplasty surgical repair

BENEFITS OF BULLDOG VAGINAL SKINFOLDS SURGERY

  • Reduced Risk of UTIs:
    • Significantly diminishes the likelihood of recurrent urinary tract infections.
  • Enhanced Hygiene and Comfort:
    • Improves overall hygiene and comfort for the dog.
  • Minimized Inflammation and Irritation:
    • Aids in reducing inflammation and irritation in the vulvar area.
  • Facilitates cleaning and maintenance:
    • It enables easier cleaning and maintenance of the folds, contributing to the ongoing well-being of the dog.

Bulldog UTI due to Vaginal Fold Dermatitis: TIPS & WARNINGS

Here are recommendations and cautions curated by Dr. Kraemer regarding this medical condition.

Bulldog Vaginal Folds: ANATOMY TIP

Get to know the curvature and depth of the folds by gently exploring them with the antiseptic bully wipe. Rolling your bulldog onto her back or side can make the folds more accessible and easier to clean. Utilize Dr. Kraemer’s medicated antiseptic products, do so daily, and ensure thorough coverage of the hood and folds.

  • V4BBully Skin-fold Wipe
  • V4B Bully Skin-fold Lotion

English Bulldog XL Antiseptic Skinfold wipes

Bulldog Skinfolds Dermatitis SURGERY WARNING:

In cases where vaginal fold dermatitis progresses to chronic and persistent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or severe and persistent moist dermatitis, my typical recommendation is surgical intervention.

Bulldog Anal Gland Impaction WARNING:

There is a common misconception among some pet owners and pet care professionals, who may incorrectly attribute a pet’s sensitivity and rear-end itching to issues such as anal gland impaction or intestinal parasites.

The anatomical location of the vagina, situated low and under the rear end, can lead to the oversight of the actual problem, making it easy to misinterpret the root cause of the symptoms.

Anal Gland Abscess in Bulldogs

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The information provided on this platform is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian regarding any medical condition. It's important to always consider professional medical advice promptly and not to delay seeking it based on information you've read on this platform. Any reliance on the information provided here is entirely at your discretion.

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