Pet Health
Condition Overview
A callus is a gray, hairless, wrinkled pad of thickened skin overlying a bony pressure point.
Symptoms
The most common site is on the elbow. Other sites include the hocks, the buttocks, and the side of the legs. If the callus goes unattended, the surface breaks down, forming an ulcer or abscess that can become infected. This then becomes a most difficult problem to treat.
All symptoms +
Causes
Calluses are caused by lying on a hard surface. They tend to occur in heavy dogs and dogs who are kenneled on cement floors.
Diagnosis
Visual exam will provide the diagnosis. An infected ulcer over bone must be treated by a vet.
Treatment
Provide the dog with a soft sleeping surface, such as a dog mattress or foam pad covered with fabric, to take pressure off the callus.
Prevention
Provide your dog with a soft sleeping surface.
Support
Please contact your veterinarian if you have questions regarding this condition.
Sources
Dog Owners Home Veterinary Handbook
Publisher: Wiley Publishing, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Authors: Debra M. Eldredge, Liisa D. Carlson, Delbert G. Carlson, James M. Giffen MD
2 Comments For "Pressure Sores - Calluses"
Jennifer Krom
I use a wonderful cream developed for dogs who have callus's or dry brittle paws. It is called Tender Foot here is a link to it. http://www.healthypets.com/tenderfoot5oz.html
The best way to help your pet is to keep them off hard surfaces, but my dog eats all of his beds so this works for me!
July 24, 2011 at 10:01PM Sign In or Join to Comment
Guest
My question is what to do if the callus splits open... His vet is closed for the next few days...I've been cleaning it & putting anti-bacterial ointment on it, then wrapping it with a non stick bandage, (which stays on exactly 10 minutes before he takes it off)... he sleeps on an IKEA mattress, we have blankets & non-skid pads all over our floors...I just don't want him to get it infected
October 3, 2011 at 1:08AM Sign In or Join to Comment