The Use of Probiotics in Topical Application: An Innovative and Alternative Solution for the Health of Our Pets

Article by Dr. Gregory Schoonbroodt veterinarian in charge of business development and R&D support.

Introduction: Innovation at the service of animal health

As part of ongoing research to improve the health of pets, new approaches are emerging to offer alternative solutions to chemical treatments. The use of probiotics by surface application represents one of these promising innovations, aimed at maintaining an optimal microbiological balance on the skin and in the animal’s environment. This technology, supported by our R&D, is part of the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnection between human, animal and environmental health.

The purpose of this article is to share the results of our research, demonstrating the effectiveness and benefits of this method in the prevention and management of various ailments in companion animals, while avoiding the risks associated with chemical disinfectants and traditional drugs.

What is surface application of probiotics?

Probiotics are living micro-organisms which, when administered in sufficient quantities, provide health benefits. While their internal use in foods and supplements is well known, their surface application, directly on the skin of animals or in their environment, is an approach that has yet to be explored, but which has great potential.

The idea is to use specially selected strains of probiotics to colonize and protect the animal’s skin, creating a balanced microbial environment. This solution helps prevent the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, while promoting the animal’s skin and general health.

A response to the challenges of chemical treatments

Traditional treatments for skin diseases and bacterial infections in pets often rely on the use of antibiotics or chemical disinfectants. While these treatments are effective in the short term, they can have undesirable side-effects such as bacterial resistance, disruption of the skin microbiome and environmental impact.

Surface application of probiotics is distinguished by its gentler, non-invasive approach, which respects the natural balance. Instead of destroying all bacteria, this method aims to encourage the proliferation of beneficial bacteria and reinforce the animal’s natural defenses. This reduces the need for potentially harmful chemical solutions.

In care environments such as veterinary clinics or zoos, the use of probiotics in surface cleaning has proven its effectiveness in terms of immediate and prolonged active cleaning. Beyond these aspects, the progressive reduction of known pathogens such as staphylococcus aureus and salmonella enterica in these environments has been demonstrated, whereas conventional detergents were unable to achieve this effect. These encouraging results open up prospects for a reduction in the frequency of use of aggressive biocidal products in these environments in direct contact with animals and veterinarians.

The results of our research: an innovative and effective solution

Thanks to our in-house R&D program, we have conducted extensive studies to validate the efficacy of surface-applied probiotics. Our results show a significant reduction in common skin infections in pets, such as bacterial and fungal dermatitis, with no negative side effects.

Our probiotics have the ability to stabilize a disturbed local flora (in dysbiosis) by filling in the spaces devoid of protective commensal bacteria. In this way, the probiotics allow the local flora to gradually reconstitute itself, before fading away to its advantage.

What’s more, the application of probiotics has demonstrated a positive impact on skin regeneration and an improvement in the animals’ overall health. Indeed, our in vitro study showed a 20% acceleration in skin wound healing. This solution has also proven its effectiveness in managing the environmental microbiome, contributing to a healthier habitat for animals.

Our work has focused on developing formulations tailored to the specific needs of animals, ensuring that the probiotics used are not only safe and effective, but also easy to apply, whether directly to the animal’s skin or in its daily environment.

The One Health A win-win solution

The One Health approach highlights the importance of understanding and addressing the links between human, animal and environmental health. By adopting this approach, the use of probiotics on the surface goes beyond simple benefits for animals. By reducing the use of chemicals, we also contribute to preserving the health of the environment, by limiting pollution and the spread of harmful substances.

This technology echoes the growing concerns of veterinarians and animal health professionals about the long-term impact of traditional treatments on biodiversity and antimicrobial resistance. It is thus perfectly in line with the vision of a more sustainable future that respects the balance of nature.

Conclusion: A solution for the future of animal health

In conclusion, the use of surface-applied probiotics opens up new perspectives in pet health. Backed by rigorous research and convincing results, this innovative alternative approach makes it possible to care for animals without resorting to chemical treatments, while promoting their overall well-being. By offering a response to the challenges of antimicrobial resistance and environmental pollution, this technology is part of a broader vision of global One Health.

We are convinced that this solution represents the future of animal healthcare, and we invite veterinarians, researchers and pet owners to explore these new options for improving the quality of life of their companions while preserving the environment.

Further information: One health – WHO website.

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