D.J.W., Uniontown, Pa
Tags: dog PA Uniontown
Apr 22, 2012
Question:
I have a 5-year-old pug. He has several black spots that look like warts on his stomach.
The veterinarian I took him to retired, so a young vet has taken over. The previous vet put him on steroids, but the new vet said she could remove them with surgery. She tells me the warts are caused by a virus.
What could be causing these growths? What options do I have besides surgery? Can I be infected by this virus?
D.J.W., Uniontown, Pa Apr 23, 2012
Answer:
Yes, your dog's warts are caused by a virus. But since it's different from the viruses that cause warts in humans, you have nothing to worry about. You can't get an infection from handling your dog.
I am glad that the veterinarian who prescribed steroids has been replaced. Steroids could make the problem worse and have other side effects.
Try "painting" the warts two to three times a day with apple cider vinegar -- you'll have to stop your dog from licking it off for about 30 minutes. If you see no improvement in a few weeks, I would consider surgery. Have the surgery done soon if any of the warts seem infected or ulcerated and are causing your dog discomfort.
Several other home remedies for warts are in the archives section on my website. Some readers have found success by applying vitamin E squeezed out of the gelatin capsules.
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