COLONIZATION OF THE CANINE SKIN WITH BACTERIA

Aspects of colonization of the canine skin with bacteria are reviewed. Owing to variability in sampling techniques, anatomical sites involve d and lack of temporal studies, there is still controversy as to which bacteria are residents or transients on the canine skin. The establis hment of the cutaneous flora is determined by the ability of bacteria to adhere to canine corneocytes, to use available nutrients from skin secretions and to resist challenge from competing bacteria. Variations in humidity and temperature due to environment, skin folds or differe nces in the haircoat are also likely to have an effect. Much research has focused around Staphylococcus intermedius, the main pathogen of th e canine skin but its cutaneous residency status remains questionable. Pathological conditions such as atopy and seborrhoea favour the colon ization of S. intermedius and predispose to infection. Recent studies indicate that bacterial interference as a method of preventing coloniz ation of pathogenic staphylococci may be feasible.