What are Warts?

Warts are clusters of abnormal cells that appear as round growths on the skin, particularly around the eyes and mouth. In dogs these growths are called viral papillomas. They often have jagged edges and may seem cauliflower-like in appearance. While warts are often unsightly, the good news is that they are usually harmless and seldom pose a health risk to your pet. But how did your pet get them in the first place?

What Causes Warts?

Warts are caused by the Papillomavirus (PV) which is a virus that actually stimulates the skin cells to produce the wart. Infection can occur when your dog comes into contact with another infected dog or picks up the virus from the environment; however the virus is more common in pets with immature or weakened immune systems.

Diagnosing Warts

Once your pet is infected, the warts usually appear within a month to two months and in most cases your pet will present with multiple warts. As your pet’s immune system becomes more mature the warts should start to disappear, with most cases resolving within 1-5 months.

Help for Warts

Natural remedies

Herbal and homeopathic remedies can be used to assist in the speedy recovery from warts. Many natural ingredients have been used for centuries to treat a number of skin conditions including warts. Fucus vesiculosis is often used in the treatment of skin conditions and to promote healthy skin and coat.

Spirulina can also be used and works by supplying rich nutrients to the skin as well as improving the body’s resistance to viruses and disease. Other herbs that can be used to help treat warts include Horsetail and Dandelion which help enrich the skin and promote skin healing on a cellular level.

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