Topical application of heat-killed bacteria (ie, Lactobacillus spp, Vitreoscilla filiformis) has been reported to help in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in humans and mice.1-4 There have been no investigations into the use of a similar product in atopic dogs.
The current study* evaluated use of a spray containing heat-killed lactobacilli (ie, L rhamnosus, L reuteri) in 10 nonseasonally allergic pet dogs. The spray was applied to the ventrum every 24 hours for 28 days. Clinical scores (ie, canine atopic dermatitis extent and severity index 4 [CADESI-04], pruritus visual analog scale [pVAS]), skin barrier function, and pet owner assessment were obtained on days 0, 14, 28, and 42. The cutaneous microbiota were analyzed on days 0 and 28. There was a significant reduction in CADESI clinical severity scores at each time point as compared with those on day 0 and in pVAS on day 42. Significant changes in cutaneous microbiota and skin barrier function were not observed. Owners reported the spray was easy to apply.