Dakin’s solution has been around since WWII as a wound dressing. I used to make it in the hospital pharmacy where it was used for dressings. Recently it has been found to be effective topically for MRSA and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (dog Staph bacterial infections). A version of it is commercially available but below is the formula for you to make your own and it’s alot less expensive! (formula courtesy of The Ohio State University Medical Center).
Supplies you’ll need:
Clorox bleach (5.25%), baking soda, clean tap water, clean pan with lid, sterile measuring cup and spoons (put in dishwasher before to sterilize), sterile jar with lid.
Make the solution:
Wash your hands with soap and water. Measure 32 oz (4 cups) of tap water and pour into clean pan. Boil the water for 15 minutes with the lid on the pan. Remove from heat. Add 1/2 teaspoonful baking soda to the boiled water. Measure bleach using 3oz (95ml) bleach in 32 oz. water for full strength solution or 3 Tablespoonsful + 1/2 teaspoonful of bleach in 32 oz. water for half-strength solution. Place the solution in a sterile jar and close tightly with the lid. Cover to protect from light. Once opened and used, discard after 48 hours. If unopened, it keeps for one month.
This solution can be used topically in dogs once daily with bacterial skin infections or even as a bath. Keep out of reach of children, do not take orally, for topical use only! Contact your veterinarian if symptoms worsen.