New updates to the 2014 “Guidelines for the diagnosis and antimicrobial therapy of canine superficial bacterial folliculitis,” are underway, with one incoming revision suggesting that topical therapy be the first line treatment for superficial bacterial folliculitis, or pyoderma, according to Jason B. Pieper, DVM, MS, DACVD, assistant professor at Iowa State University.

 As Pieper explained in a lecture at the 2025 Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) in Orlando, Florida, the first step in the treatment of pyoderma should now be topical therapy.

Pyoderma is a bacterial infection of the skin. It is divided based on the how deep the infection is in the skin and consists of surface, superficial, and deep pyoderma, with surface pyoderma being the most common form of the infection.

"Now one thing I will say…is superficial pyoderma does involve the hair follicles because again, the epidermis kind of goes down and surrounds….the hair shaft…with the hair follicle, so even infections down in that area are still considered a superficial pyoderma,” explained Pieper during his session.

When thinking about topical therapy for a pyoderma case, it is important to consider both the active ingredient that will be used and what the best formulation for the patient’s individual case is; as well as the frequency of the topical application, how labor intensive the therapy is, and what the realistic client compliance will be.

The antiseptic chlorhexidine is the most widely available antimicrobial, according to Pieper. It is effective against viruses, bacteria, and fungi and can work synergistically with other ingredients like miconazole. Addressing concerns over antimicrobial resistance to this ingredient, Pieper explained that there has been no documented clinical resistance to this antiseptic to date.

He also noted that higher concentrations of chlorhexidine are not always better than lower concentrations, citing a 2013 study on chlorhexidine shampoos in 0.8, 2, 3, and 4% concentrations that found larger zones of bacterial growth inhibition in shampoos with 2 and 3% chlorhexidine compared to the shampoos containing 0.8 and 4% chlorhexidine.

This ingredient has antibacterial, keratolytic, degreasing, and follicular flushing activity. “People use this for acne, so again, cleaning out the hair follicles and kind of breaking up the oils, stuff like that,” said Pieper.

However, benzoyl peroxide can cause excessive drying of the skin, which lead to increased pruritus. It could also potentially bleach fabrics like bedding. Additionally, the ingredient has a low number of formulations.

Sodium hypochlorite is similar to chlorhexidine in its effectiveness against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. “Historically people have talked about in human medicine using something called a Dakin’s solution. And what they would do is that they would go ahead and take bleach, dilute with water, put some baking soda in there, boil it to neutralize it, things like that, and…they would use it for children and do baths with some really resistant infections,” said Pieper. However, as Pieper explained, its drying effect is the concern.

“There is one study out there with just bleach and water, which is kind of what we think of with sodium hypochlorite, that did not show it to be drying when they used it, so that’s a nice benefit with this compared to say, benzoyl peroxide,” he added. There is a shampoo with salicylic acid (Command) that is available, said Pieper. Studies have shown that this shampoo is effective, according to his session.

This ingredient is widely used for decontamination. It works well against gram-positive bacteria, some gram-negative bacteria, and dermatophytes, according to Pieper. He explained that there is a veterinary shampoo available with this ingredient in a one-gallon container that could be an effective option for decontamination.

Considering the formulation that will be used for the patient is crucial, as it is important to consider which formulation will be best for the patient, location of the infection, formulation efficacy, and compliance. “There’s nothing worse than giving [patients] a product and they don’t use it at all—it’s not going to work at all,” said Pieper.

One of the oldest formulations, shampoo is labor intensive but is effective for generalized disease. As Pieper explained, shampoos have the ability to reach lesions that may have not been noticed. For shampoos, a contact time of 10 minutes is recommended, explained Pieper.

Although sprays can be easily applied, application can also be difficult with patients that have a thick haircoat. Moreover, compliance can be an issue with this type of formulation, as many cats and dogs are fearful of sprays.

“A lot of studies have shown that you’re going to need to apply that 1-2 times a day,” said Pieper, explaining that patients will need to be distracted after application to prevent treatment removal. Although relatively labor-intensive, sprays are useful for generalized lesions if wide areas are covered, as well as for small areas.

This formulation is available in a range of combination medications, including steroids. “I typically think of them as your triple threat-type product,” said Pieper, explaining that ear medication ointments can work really well.

Ointments also work well for localized lesions. This formulation will also be applied 1-2 times a day.

Wipes are a newer type of formulation. Applied 1-2 a day, these work best for localized lesions, especially in areas that are difficult to reach, according to Pieper. “I like them for paws, especially kind of those bulldog paws to get that kind of cheesy stuff in between,” he said. “It works really well to…get in there, wipe it out, and physically remove that debris.” He noted that the liquid in the wipes will also leave residual product in the area.

This formulation is the newest formulation, explained Pieper. Mousse is best for multifocal, as well as generalized lesions, depending on the dog, their coat length, thickness, affected area, etc. It is applied a few times a week, depending on the patient. According to Pieper, mousse is a “great alternative to bath.” However, some products can irritate ulcerated lesions.

Pieper JB. Updates in pyoderma: Diagnosis and treatment. Presented at: Veterinary Meeting & Expo; Orlando, FL. January 25-29, 2025.

Hillier A, Lloyd DH, Weese JS, et al. Guidelines for the diagnosis and antimicrobial therapy of canine superficial bacterial folliculitis (Antimicrobial Guidelines Working Group of the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases). 

Kloos I, Straubinger RK, Werckenthin C, Mueller RS. Residual antibacterial activity of dog hairs after therapy with antimicrobial shampoos. 

Articles

Jason B. Pieper, DVM, MS, DACVD, talked about pyoderma, including ingredients and formulations, in his lecture at the 2025 Veterinary Meeting & Expo

Topical treatments for pyoderma

IDEXX Laboratories shared earlier this month the launch of IDEXX Cancer Dx, a diagnostic panel with early detection of lymphoma in canine patients. The new panel is an accessible blood test that can be added to the panels of sick pets and can be integrated into annual wellness screenings. IDEXX Cancer Dx costs as low as $15, providing professionals in the United States with actionable results within 2 to 3 days.

"Building on over 40 years of IDEXX's leadership in veterinary research and technology development, IDEXX Cancer Dx is our latest groundbreaking solution to deliver unmatched diagnostic insights," said Jay Mazelsky, president and chief executive officer of IDEXX, in an organizational release.

 "As leaders in key cancer diagnostic categories, like pathology and imaging, we continue to innovate technologies that can redefine how veterinarians approach cancer detection and monitoring in pets. We're proud to be at the forefront of early cancer detection in dogs and look forward to expanding IDEXX Cancer Dx to cover other cancer types."

The panel delivers qualitative results for lymphoma, and B-cell and T-cell phenotype classification will be provided positive results as available for no additional cost.

 The IDEXX Cancer Dx has high sensitivity and specific yield results to be used with confidence for both sick and in routine preventative care for at risk canine patients.

 The panel includes the most comprehensive portfolio of products and services supporting veterinary professionals with preventative care, IDEXX Cancer Dx, unlocks additional insights for at-risk canine patients.

Personalized guidance and comprehensive support: 

results come with access to IDEXX Medical Consultants, which includes board certified oncologists and internists as well as educational materials for pet owners and resources to support client communication.

IDEXX cancer Dx is designed to fit into already existing workflows and diagnostic wellness panels, using a single blood sample.

Cancer is currently the leading cause of death in canine patients with 1 in 4 dogs expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, with lymphoma being one of the most common cancers in dogs.

 If detected early, treatments for canine lymphoma can help expand the lifespan of dogs, and improve their quality of life. According to the release, IDEXX Cancer Dx panel can provide a clinical diagnosis of canine lymphoma earlier than traditional diagnostics.

"IDEXX Cancer Dx is a powerful innovation in oncology diagnostics," explained Timothy Fan, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (Oncology, Small Animal Internal Medicine). "At an affordable price point, this test increases access to cancer diagnoses and care, and it enables veterinarians the opportunity to intervene sooner and improve the quality of life for canine cancer patients."

IDEXX Cancer Dx testing with canine lymphoma will be available in the United States and Canada in late March 2025 and professionals can learn more in the IDEXX Cancer Dx testing website.

IDEXX Announces Groundbreaking Cancer Dx Panel with Affordable Early Detection Test for Canine Lymphoma. News release. IDEXX Laboratories Inc. January 23, 2025. Accessed January 27, 2025. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/idexx-announces-groundbreaking-cancer-dx-panel-with-affordable-early-detection-test-for-canine-lymphoma-852823118.html

Veterinary Cancer Society. Pet Owner Resources. Veterinary Cancer Society. Accessed January 27, 2025. 

https://vetcancersociety.org/resources/pet-owners/pet-owner-resources/

Vail DM, Thamm DH, Liptak JM. Hematopoietic Tumors. 

Withrow and MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology

. 2019;688-772. doi:10.1016/B978-0-323-59496-7.00033-5

Over the next 3 years, IDEXX Cancer Dx will expand to include most canine cancer cases

Affordable early detection test for canine lymphoma to hit the market

NAVC CEO Gene O’Neill discusses attendance at VMX and the artistic theme for the 2025 event..

NAVC celebrates science and the arts at VMX

The 2025 Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX), hosted by the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC), began Saturday, January 25, and runs through Wednesday, January 29. In an interview with 

, Gene O’Neill, CEO of NAVC, discussed the organization’s largest attendance to date and this year’s unique theme.

NAVC has a drive to help wildlife affected by California wildfires through VMX

The following is an edited transcript of the video:

: VMX is the crown jewel in our portfolio. Obviously, it's the it is the largest educational expo event in the world for veterinarians, and we take a great pride in that. But there also comes a responsibility with that too, because [in] this facility, and as large as it is, this year we're expecting nearly 30,000 of our closest veterinary professional friends, and it could get a little tricky sometimes in coordinating where people go at what time to different sessions. But we were able to segment it so that if you're a veterinary technician or veterinary nurse, you can stay in a certain area.

This year, our theme was Festival of the HeArts. And it really is a festival when you walk around the floors and you hear the excitement, you see the colors from all the paintings that are out there. We have a gallery on the expo floor of paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures; all designed and produced by veterinarians or other professionals in this space. Not only do you get to see the painting, but there are also audio clips that you can listen to on your app about the about the artist, [and] what they were thinking when they designed the piece. You can even purchase the piece. You can donate the piece. So, it's really pretty cool, the way we set this whole thing up this year.

Videos

NAVC CEO Gene O’Neill discusses attendance at VMX this year and the theme for the 2025 event in an interview with dvm360.

NAVC celebrates the arts at VMX

Mara Tugel, DVM, shares with listeners in this video interview with dvm360 some success stories surrounding Elanco's product Zenrelia

Interview with Elanco's Mara Tugel, DVM 

Elanco Animal Health incorporated shared today first allergic canine patients who have been treated for atopic dermatitis successfully with ilunocitinib tablets (Zenrelia; Elanco).

 Zenrelia, which received FDA approval in September 2024, is a once-daily Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor used for controlling pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis and atopic dermatitis for canine patients at least 12 months of age.

“Our research shows that when pet owners see their dog at their worst levels of itch, they’re concerned, stressed, frustrated and anxious,” said Bobby Modi, executive vice president, US Pet Health and Global Digital Transformation, in an organizational release.

 “Pet owners shouldn’t allow allergic itch to disrupt zen for them or their pups. Zenrelia is designed to begin working from the very first dose and help get dogs back to normal.”

, recently published a new study that described the findings of a clinical trial that was randomized and compared Zenrelia to the leading JAK inhibitor on the veterinary marketing, oclacitinib chewable tablets (Apoquel Chewable; Zoetis). The study contained 308 allergic dogs who each received oclacitnib (0.4–0.6 mg/kg twice daily for 14 days; then once daily) or ilunocitinib (0.6–0.8 mg/kg once daily), for up to 112 days.3 The owners of the participating dogs then assessed skin lesions on their pets using the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, 4

“I’ve had the opportunity to use Zenrelia in my practice and it’s helped several of my patients get back to normal levels of itch,” explained 

, a veterinary dermatologist at Veterinary Skin and Ear in Los Angeles, California.

 “In the fight against allergic dermatitis, I’ve found that every dog is different - it’s great to have another effective treatment option in my toolbox.”

Answering commonly asked Zenrelia questions

Researchers found that the reduction in pruritus and CADESI-04 was similar for both groups from days 1-14. However, on days 28-112, Visual Analog Scale (PVAS) and CADESI-04 scores were significantly lower for ilunocitinib when compared to the oclacitinib. Also on days 28-112, a greater number of ilunocitinib-treated dogs achieved clinical remission of pruritus. The subjective assessment of overall response was better for the ilunocitinib on days 28-112, and both drugs demonstrated similar safety throughout the study.

Along with the recently published research, Elanco also shared some of the faces of canine patients who have had success with Zenrelia.

Hunter, a 8-year-old chocolate lab, from Ohio suffered from dermatitis most of his life, and his symptoms worsen as he aged, especially licking at his feet and lower logs. Cristy, his owner and a receptionist at a local veterinary clinic tried everything recommended by Hunter’s veterinarian, including injections 3-4 weeks, antihistamines, medicated shampoos and wipes, and even steroids in the times of the year when his condition would worsen. Despite this routine, his symptoms were never controlled.

“His back feet were pretty much naked up until his first joint and his front feet would be scabby and scaly from the constant licking,” Cristy said.

 “It was really discouraging as his dog mom that I couldn’t do anything to help him. He’s so much more comfortable since being on Zenrelia. It’s such a relief that he has relief.”

Scrappy, a 9-year-old Yorkshire Terrier- Chihuahua mix, and his owner Lisa tried everything to give Scrappy some relief. His itching had gotten to the point where he was lost a significant amount of future, lost interest in going on walks and playing, and no one in the family was getting a good night sleep. After trying multiple options, Lisa tried Zenrelia and Scrapy’s itch level improved after 2 days. Lisa reported that Scrappy is happy, his fur has regrown, and he is taking long walks again.

“I was excited to get Trooper, Scrappy and some other patients started on Zenrelia as soon as it was available to order,” said Thomas Lewis, DVM, DACVD, veterinary dermatologist and founder of Dermatology for Animals, a group of veterinary dermatology clinics committed to caring for pets with allergies.

 “Seeing these dogs get back to normal levels of itch and seeing the bond restored between the dog and pet parents is incredibly rewarding. Pet owners should contact their veterinarian and ask if Zenrelia is right for their dog.”

Veterinary professionals can learn more about Zenrelia on ZenreliaForVets.com

Meet the Faces of Zen: Elanco’s Zenrelia™ (ilunocitinib tablets) Helps Allergic Dogs Get Back to Normal. News release. Elanco Animal Health Incorporated. January 27, 2025. Accessed January 27, 2025. 

https://www.multivu.com/elanco/9235451-en-elanco-zenrelia-canine-dermatology

McCafferty C. Treatment for allergic skin conditions receives FDA approval. dvm360. September 19, 2024. Accessed January 27, 2025. https://www.dvm360.com/view/zenrelia-receives-fda-approval

‌Forster S, Boegel A, Despa S, Trout C, King S. Comparative efficacy and safety of ilunocitinib and oclacitinib for the control of pruritus and associated skin lesions in dogs with atopic dermatitis. 

. Published online January 6, 2025. doi:10.1111/vde.13319

A newly published study compared clinical outcomes of Zenrelia and another leading JAK inhibitor, plus the latest faces of Zenrelia

Insights into Zenrelia’s effectiveness 

Virbac, a global leader in animal health, announced the launch of ZENIFEL Pheromone Products. The latest product from Virbac is a solution designed to calm feline patients as well as improve their wellbeing. According to the release, ZENIFEL Pheromone Products combined feline facial pheromones with 

extracts, a plant-based product also known as cat nip.

"We're expanding our behavior portfolio because we understand the critical need for effective and practical tools to manage pet stress," said Giovanni Abruzzini, president and CEO of Virbac US, in an organizational release.

 "ZENIFEL Pheromone Products not only reduce stress-related behaviors but offer pet owners a flexible, long-lasting solution that fits seamlessly into their daily lives. This innovation reflects our commitment to improving the bond between pets and their families."

Virbac introduced ZENIFEL™ Pheromone Products, a solution designed to calm cats and improve their well-being (Image courtesy of Virbac)

The new products are available in 2 formats

ZENIFEL Gel Diffuser which utilizes slow-release technology that provides up to 2 months of calming effects without needing an electrical outlet. The product can also cover up to 750 square feet and can reduce signs of stress by up to 80%.

ZENIFEL Spray which is a portable and odorless formula that can be used for traveling, visits to the clinic, or a sudden stressful event. The bottle provides a minimum of 400 sprays.

A study conducted in Europe, which received funding from Virbac SA, compared ZENIFEL Pheromone Products to a leading competitor. The researchers found that when assessing the efficacy of 2 different diffusers to reduce undesirable behaviors, ZENIFEL Pheromone Products gel diffuser lasted 2 months while the competitor lasted one. The findings state that although both diffusers could reduce undesirable behaviors in feline patients, the ZENIFEL gel diffuser had some advantages that cat owners believe could be used regularly throughout the year. The research also confirmed the role of pheromone in the management of these behaviors.

ZENIFEL Pheromone Products can both be used for behavioral changes in pets and help improve their quality of life. The products incorporated innovation to provide a solution that is reliable for problems that can impact pets and their families all over the globe.

"Whether it's a trip to the vet, introducing a new family member or simply adjusting to life changes, ZENIFEL Pheromone Products help cats feel safe and secure," Abruzzini continued.

 "This product is about giving pet owners peace of mind and giving pets a chance to thrive."

Virbac will be presenting the new products and educating the veterinary community on how it works at the following conferences:

: January 25-29, 2025, in Orlando Florida

Anyone interested in learning more about ZENIFEL Pheromone Products can visit the Virbac website.

Virbac Introduces ZENIFEL™ Pheromone Products: A Game-Changing Solution for Stress-related Behaviors in Cats. News release. Virbac. January 23, 2025. Accessed January 27, 2025. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/virbac-introduces-zenifel-pheromone-products-a-game-changing-solution-for-stress-related-behaviors-in-cats-302358965.html

Bernachon N, Beata C, Crastes NC, et al. Response to Acute Stress in Domestic Cats Using Synthetic Analogues of Natural Appeasing Pheromones with 

 Extract Rich in Nepetalactone: A Double-blinded, Randomized, Positive Controlled Cross-over Study. 

Espuña G, Nicolas CS, Girardin A, et al. A long-lasting gel-based diffuser of feline pheromone can help reduce undesirable behaviors in cats at home: comparison with an electric diffuser. 

. 2024;11:1445108. Published 2024 Aug 29. doi:10.3389/fvets.2024.1445108

The new products will provide support for dealing with stress-related behavior in feline patients 

Virbac announces pheromone products

The North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) is leading an industry-wide initiative to support animals affected by wildfires in Southern California. Throughout the NAVC’s Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) in Orlando, Florida—January 25-29, 2025—the organization is running a fundraising drive with donations benefiting the nonprofit Pasadena Humane Wildlife Relief Fund, which operates in the Greater Los Angeles area.

“So many animals…have been impacted by the catastrophic fires in Southern California and are in immediate need of homes and medical care. The veterinary community understands how urgent these needs are and is looking for ways to contribute and help now,” Gene O’Neill, CEO of NAVC, said in a news release.

Tips to help prepare clients and the veterinary team for a disaster situation

There are multiple opportunities for VMX attendees to contribute to the campaign. “We have collection boxes for cash [and] for checks. We have QR codes that they can scan and use to give donations online, and we also have, through our NAVC shop, [an item] that they can purchase, [and the profit] goes to donation,” O’Neill added in a 

The donation bins are placed in the VMX Registration Booths in the South and North concourses of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, and donors will be provided with a ‘One Love’ sticker at the Shop NAVC booth as a ‘thank you’ for contributing to the initiative.

According to NAVC, 100% of money donated by attendees will support the receiving charity. “Everything we collect goes to the Pasadena Humane Wildlife Relief Fund,” O’Neill emphasized. NAVC has also pledged to match up to $25,000 of raised money for the relief fund.

“Everyone knows the catastrophic damage that's been done by the by the wildfires. It's unfathomable how much damage has been done,” O’Neill said in the interview. The fundraising drive is “a way for NAVC to connect with the community, not only from a pet level, but also from just a humane level. It's just so catastrophic to see what has happened.”

O’Neil noted that the NAVC previously supported wildlife relief efforts in a similar way. “Back in 2020, with the bushfires in Australia, we collected donations throughout VMX, and sent that off to an agency in Australia to help,” he added.

Study analyzes severity of injuries in koalas affected by Australian bushfire

The fundraising campaign for Pasadena Humane Wildlife Relief Fund—part of the Pasadena Humane organization that offers programs and services to animals and the humans who care for them—was announced Saturday at VMX. With nearly 30,000 veterinary professionals attending the event and representing 82 countries, NAVC is leveraging the world’s largest veterinary conference to make a difference.

“Together, we can multiply our impact on the lies of these animals, their families and the tireless veterinary staff working to save the animals,” O’Neill said in the release.

North American Veterinary Community launches global veterinary industry fundraising drive to aid animals impacted by Southern California wildfires. News release. North American Veterinary Community. January 22, 2025. Accessed January 26, 2025. 

https://navc.com/navc-launches-fundraising-drive-to-aid-animals-affected-by-ca-wildfires/

VMX attendees have an opportunity to participate in a global effort to raise funds life-saving nonprofit organization