Pyoderma is one of the most common bacterial skin condition observed in dogs. Staphylococcus is considered as a predominant bacterial agent associated with bacterial dermatitis in dogs. A study was undertaken to detect involvement of Staphylococcus spp. from pyoderma cases in dogs and to determine in vitro antimicrobial resistant pattern of isolates. Total 37 samples from dogs showing pyoderma were aseptically collected for bacterial isolation. Out of 37 samples, 32 isolates were identified as Staphylococcus spp. (86.48 %) and one as Streptococcus. From 32 Staphylococcus, 13 isolates were identified as Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (40.63 %), 6 as Staphylococcus schleiferi subsp. coagulans (18.75 %), and 5 as Staphylococcus aureus (15.63 %) by PCR. Biochemically, 4 isolates characterized as Staphylococcus hominis (12.5 %), 3 as Staphylococcus capitis (9.38 %) and 1 isolate as Staphylococcus gallinarum (3.12 %). Antibiogram of Staphylococcus isolates showed highest resistance against clindamycin (59.38 %) and cefpodoxime (59.38 %) followed by oxacillin (50 %), neomycin (46.88 %), doxycycline (43.75 %), amoxyclav (34.38 %), enrofloxacin (31.25 %), amikacin (21.88 %) while cefalexin found as least resistant (18.75 %). Screening of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is necessary as it pose major challenge for antibiotic resistance. S. pseudintermedius can be transmitted from infected dogs to healthy dogs and humans; it needs attention for both the veterinary and human sector.

Antimicrobial Resistance, Bacteria, Pyoderma, PCR, Staphylococcus

Based on our findings it can be concluded Staphylococcus spp. considered as the main bacterial agent in pyoderma condition of dogs of this region. S. pseudintermedius, S. schleiferi subsp coagulans and S. aureus represent as major causative agents. PCR technique considered as more precise and sensitive technique compared to biochemical methods but non specific isolates can be identified with the biochemical tests. Cefalexin appears appropriate choice of antibiotic against canine pyoderma caused by Staphylococcus for this region. However, bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing should always be considered in context to antibiotic resistance and to check sensitivity pattern of particular bacterial agents of geographical area. Possibility of transfer of opportunistic staphylococci between animals and humans and vice versa should be considered and pet owners should be advised to maintain good hygiene practices.

Makwana P.M., Parmar S.M., Vala J.A., Parasana D.K., Patel D.R., Kalyani I.H. and Solanki J.B. (2023). Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial-resistant Pattern of Staphylococcus species Isolated from Pyoderma Cases in Dogs. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 82-87.