There are different dog skin problems that our pets may suffer from. As a pet owner, it should be our responsibility to get ourselves better acquainted with what these are so we can prevent them from pestering our dogs. When these skin problems are left unattended, they can eventually become mixed with the blood of our pets and cost more major problems in the long run.
Among the most common types of skin problems that pester dogs are allergies. It’s not just humans who actually get affected by these but even dogs. There are a number of sources for allergies but the most common are food and allergens. This is why you should do some extra care when feeding new things to your dogs and also make sure you keep your home clean.
Fleas are also among the most common dog skin problems. They infest the dog’s skin and they feed on the blood of your dog. However, what’s considerably most irritating for dogs is the flea’s saliva. When this touches the dog’s skin it causes the unwanted irritation which leads to the development of rashes. This also appears to be very itchy for dogs, which is why they tend to scratch on it endlessly. In the long run the frequency of scratching would turn to wounds.
Ear mites are also a common type of parasite that causes skin problems for dogs. What it does is enter right through your dog’s ears and then reside inside of them. They are known to look like coffee grinds and they can also spread to other parts of the dog’s body. They can be quite dangerous to leave untreated because they can burrow deep into your dog’s ear canal. Usually, medications are being prescribed to treat them.
Gray spots are also among the telling signs of dog skin problems. Dogs who suddenly have the appearance of dots on their skin might currently be suffering from ticks. Just like fleas, these ticks are also known to feed on the blood of your dog. In the long run, they might be the cause for the dog to have a Lyme disease which can enlarge the lymph nodes of your pet.
Canine lice are also known to exist among dogs. The spread of this can happen if your dog gets to move close or come in contact with another dog that already have lice. This parasite can hardly be seen by the naked eye but they are known to have wings which allows them to transfer from one unknowing host to another. But thanks to a shampoo with phrethrin, lice can easily be removed.
Dog skin problems are also rounded up with fungal infections. Usually, a parasite like ringworn is behind such problems. You would know that your dog is suffering from fungi infection if they exhibit dry flaky skin. Your pet’s skin would also appear to be scaly and redness around the infected area will appear.
If you want to preven dog skin problems, you should take the time to regularly bring your dog to the vet. You should also keep your home clean always.
Showing posts with label dog skin problems. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dog skin problems. Show all posts
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Causes And Treatments For Dog Skin Problems
Dog skin problems can be caused by many different things. Your local veterinarian should be consulted to determine what the root problem is and find the best solution for your pet. Some of the reasons for skin issues can relate to the diet your dog is eating, the season, the area of the body where the problem is, the age of the pet and the breed. Once the cause is found it will be easier and faster to resolve the issue.
Some dogs have allergies to certain ingredients in their dog food, others can have seasonal allergies. If the dog is not too old the problem could be genetic. Take a look at the size and the shape of the irritation as well as how far it has spread and let the vet know what was discovered. If it is not widespread it could be a fungal or a bacterial problem in just that one spot.
Just one flea could cause a dog to be miserable, this could be the reason for all the scratching if the dog is allergic to fleas and they will get a rash from the bite. If you feel a lump, there could be a tumor that needs to be removed. An abnormal growth will cause changes in the color of the skin and the hair. For the dog with a dull coat, this could be an indicator of a hormonal issue.
Antibiotics are used when there is a bacterial infection. They are often caused by another condition such as an allergy or a hormonal problem. Testing will determine the type of infection that is present for an accurate treatment plan.
When antibiotics are prescribed they will need to be taken for several weeks depending on the severity of the problem. Allergies can cause the skin to itch and allergy shots can be given to provide relief. Antihistamines may also be needed and can cause the dog to become drowsy.
Seborrhea is a condition that refers to the accumulation of keratin that blocks the sebaceous glands and causes the hair to become greasy and the skin to become dry. Certain breeds are prone to this disorder, but it could be due to allergies, parasites or hormonal problems. Treatment involves elimination of the underlying cause, natural remedies can boost the immune system and strengthen the coat and skin. The use of cleansing lotions can help.
Fatty acids are a common supplement for helping with these types of disorders and itchy skin. Linoleic acids are great and can be found in primrose oil, safflower oil an sunflower oil. Fish oil is a good supplement to clear up itchiness. Glucocorticoids are also used, the treatment lasts for 1 to 2 months and is usually only required in the season the dog has problems with specific allergens. Homeopathic remedies can ease the discomfort as well.
To eliminate food allergies it is best to put the pet on a hypoallergenic regime for a couple of months. This will tell if the dog has allergies to certain proteins. There are brands of dog food made specifically for this purpose.
Some dogs have allergies to certain ingredients in their dog food, others can have seasonal allergies. If the dog is not too old the problem could be genetic. Take a look at the size and the shape of the irritation as well as how far it has spread and let the vet know what was discovered. If it is not widespread it could be a fungal or a bacterial problem in just that one spot.
Just one flea could cause a dog to be miserable, this could be the reason for all the scratching if the dog is allergic to fleas and they will get a rash from the bite. If you feel a lump, there could be a tumor that needs to be removed. An abnormal growth will cause changes in the color of the skin and the hair. For the dog with a dull coat, this could be an indicator of a hormonal issue.
Antibiotics are used when there is a bacterial infection. They are often caused by another condition such as an allergy or a hormonal problem. Testing will determine the type of infection that is present for an accurate treatment plan.
When antibiotics are prescribed they will need to be taken for several weeks depending on the severity of the problem. Allergies can cause the skin to itch and allergy shots can be given to provide relief. Antihistamines may also be needed and can cause the dog to become drowsy.
Seborrhea is a condition that refers to the accumulation of keratin that blocks the sebaceous glands and causes the hair to become greasy and the skin to become dry. Certain breeds are prone to this disorder, but it could be due to allergies, parasites or hormonal problems. Treatment involves elimination of the underlying cause, natural remedies can boost the immune system and strengthen the coat and skin. The use of cleansing lotions can help.
Fatty acids are a common supplement for helping with these types of disorders and itchy skin. Linoleic acids are great and can be found in primrose oil, safflower oil an sunflower oil. Fish oil is a good supplement to clear up itchiness. Glucocorticoids are also used, the treatment lasts for 1 to 2 months and is usually only required in the season the dog has problems with specific allergens. Homeopathic remedies can ease the discomfort as well.
To eliminate food allergies it is best to put the pet on a hypoallergenic regime for a couple of months. This will tell if the dog has allergies to certain proteins. There are brands of dog food made specifically for this purpose.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Learn Even More On Dog Skin Problems
Dog skin problems are extremely common and can affect all kinds of dogs, no matter what the breed or the level of care they are given. These serious diseases will cause moderate to severe irritation and discomfort to the dog, and can even lead to permanent bald spots on the dog's coat.
Some of these diseases can cause infection, or be a sign of a flea infestation, so it is very important to take these problems very seriously. Some of these illnesses can be caused by a bacterial infection, or a type of a fungus that can grow on dog hide, as well as by an allergy to the dog's environment or food.
There is no reason to wait for the symptoms to get worse, as they will not clear up on their own. At the first sign of a disorder, it is vital to take your pet to a licensed, trained veterinarian for a diagnosis and a treatment. No matter what the issue is, early treatment will provide your dog with relief from discomfort and prevent future problems.
The veterinarian will do a variety of tests and procedures to determine what is causing the troubles with your dog. Some dog skin troubles can be traced to a simple allergy and are relatively easy to treat, while others can require blood tests and hide biopsies to effectively identify and begin treatment. In some cases, there even may be a separate, underlying medical condition that is causing the problem.
The dog's hide is the biggest organ in its body, and one of the most important ones. Medically, it consists of two separate layers. The outer layer of the skin is called the epidermis. The inner layer is called the dermis. Healthy hide is always odorless and clean, as dogs will naturally keep their hide clear. The first sign of trouble is usually inflammation, or red hot spots on the dog's body.
Because there is a range of possible diagnoses, finding the right one may take a little bit of time. Commonly, the issue is an infection caused by a type of fungus or bacteria. For some dogs, the problem might be fleas, even if the owner has not noticed yet. Some dogs are hypersensitive to flea saliva, so even a tiny number of fleas is enough to trigger an outbreak.
The veterinarian may prescribe various medications for the dog to control the underlying problem. Treating the dog for fleas or other parasites might be done, as well as giving the dog antibiotics in order to kill any invasive bacteria or fungi.
There are some alternative options, which can be helpful, especially in case of allergies. Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to a number of substances. Usually, changing the dog's diet or altering where the dog lives can help treat the allergy issue. No matter what the treatment ultimately is, not treating dog skin problems is not an option, as it can cause great discomfort to your pet.
Some of these diseases can cause infection, or be a sign of a flea infestation, so it is very important to take these problems very seriously. Some of these illnesses can be caused by a bacterial infection, or a type of a fungus that can grow on dog hide, as well as by an allergy to the dog's environment or food.
There is no reason to wait for the symptoms to get worse, as they will not clear up on their own. At the first sign of a disorder, it is vital to take your pet to a licensed, trained veterinarian for a diagnosis and a treatment. No matter what the issue is, early treatment will provide your dog with relief from discomfort and prevent future problems.
The veterinarian will do a variety of tests and procedures to determine what is causing the troubles with your dog. Some dog skin troubles can be traced to a simple allergy and are relatively easy to treat, while others can require blood tests and hide biopsies to effectively identify and begin treatment. In some cases, there even may be a separate, underlying medical condition that is causing the problem.
The dog's hide is the biggest organ in its body, and one of the most important ones. Medically, it consists of two separate layers. The outer layer of the skin is called the epidermis. The inner layer is called the dermis. Healthy hide is always odorless and clean, as dogs will naturally keep their hide clear. The first sign of trouble is usually inflammation, or red hot spots on the dog's body.
Because there is a range of possible diagnoses, finding the right one may take a little bit of time. Commonly, the issue is an infection caused by a type of fungus or bacteria. For some dogs, the problem might be fleas, even if the owner has not noticed yet. Some dogs are hypersensitive to flea saliva, so even a tiny number of fleas is enough to trigger an outbreak.
The veterinarian may prescribe various medications for the dog to control the underlying problem. Treating the dog for fleas or other parasites might be done, as well as giving the dog antibiotics in order to kill any invasive bacteria or fungi.
There are some alternative options, which can be helpful, especially in case of allergies. Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to a number of substances. Usually, changing the dog's diet or altering where the dog lives can help treat the allergy issue. No matter what the treatment ultimately is, not treating dog skin problems is not an option, as it can cause great discomfort to your pet.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
A Guide To Common Dog Skin Problems
If your dog is scratching more than is usual, then it most likely has a skin disease, parasite, or allergy. Most dog skin problems can be cleared up easily after a trip to the vet.
Allergic dermatitis presents as a rash which the dog scratches at relentlessly. Corticosteroids can be prescribed to relieve the itch, but identifying and removing the allergen is ultimately the most effective treatment plan. Dogs can be allergic to food, grooming products, pollen, and insect bites.
Scratching that is concentrated on the toes and/or ears is likely a yeast infection. Symptoms are itchy, discolored, or irritated shin on the ears and paws, where conditions are best for the yeast to grow. The most common treatment is a prescription topical cream. Occasionally a medicated bath or oral drug may be prescribed.
Sores, scabs, and bumps might be superficial bacterial folliculitis. Shorthaired dogs present more obvious symptoms, but longhaired dogs may have increased shedding and scaly skin. Other skin problems often occur simultaneously with superficial bacterial folliculitis.
A common bacterial infection found in puppies is impetigo. Blisters filled with pus will commonly break and crust over. The blisters are easy to see since they are on the hairless portion of the abdomen. Treatment by topical solution is simple.
Seborrhea is a disorder of greasy and scaly skin in dogs. Sometimes it is a life-long genetic condition. However, most of the time it is a symptom of another problem. Most of the time the cause is hormonal abnormalities or allergies. Symptoms go away when the cause is treated.
Ringworm is not a worm, it is a fungus. The name comes from the circular lesions which form on the affected dog's forelegs, paws, head, or ears. Highly effective anti-fungal treatments are available.
Alopecia, or hair loss, is always a sign of another disease in dogs. It can be caused by stress, nutritional deficiency, or an underlying disease.
Mange is a striking condition, causing intense itching, sores, hair loss, and red skin. The kind of mange determines the treatment.
The most common skin problem for dogs is fleas. Most infestations just cause itching, but some cause blood loss and anemia. Tapeworms and other parasites are carried by fleas as well. Some dogs are allergic to fleas and will develop alopecia and/or allergic dermatitis simultaneously.
The next most common parasite is the tick. The main risk from ticks is the transmittance of Lyme disease, as significant blood loss would require many ticks. Lyme disease is a potentially serious bacterial infection and there are vaccines available.
Acral lick granuloma is a disorder that is a result of excessive licking. The wound is unable to heal and becomes painful, exacerbating the condition. The treatment includes preventing the dog from continuing the behavior. Foul-tasting topical solutions and cone collars are available to solve the problem.
Hot spots are a common with dog skin problems. They are small areas of irritated, inflamed, and red skin. Treatment includes addressing the underlying cause.
Allergic dermatitis presents as a rash which the dog scratches at relentlessly. Corticosteroids can be prescribed to relieve the itch, but identifying and removing the allergen is ultimately the most effective treatment plan. Dogs can be allergic to food, grooming products, pollen, and insect bites.
Scratching that is concentrated on the toes and/or ears is likely a yeast infection. Symptoms are itchy, discolored, or irritated shin on the ears and paws, where conditions are best for the yeast to grow. The most common treatment is a prescription topical cream. Occasionally a medicated bath or oral drug may be prescribed.
Sores, scabs, and bumps might be superficial bacterial folliculitis. Shorthaired dogs present more obvious symptoms, but longhaired dogs may have increased shedding and scaly skin. Other skin problems often occur simultaneously with superficial bacterial folliculitis.
A common bacterial infection found in puppies is impetigo. Blisters filled with pus will commonly break and crust over. The blisters are easy to see since they are on the hairless portion of the abdomen. Treatment by topical solution is simple.
Seborrhea is a disorder of greasy and scaly skin in dogs. Sometimes it is a life-long genetic condition. However, most of the time it is a symptom of another problem. Most of the time the cause is hormonal abnormalities or allergies. Symptoms go away when the cause is treated.
Ringworm is not a worm, it is a fungus. The name comes from the circular lesions which form on the affected dog's forelegs, paws, head, or ears. Highly effective anti-fungal treatments are available.
Alopecia, or hair loss, is always a sign of another disease in dogs. It can be caused by stress, nutritional deficiency, or an underlying disease.
Mange is a striking condition, causing intense itching, sores, hair loss, and red skin. The kind of mange determines the treatment.
The most common skin problem for dogs is fleas. Most infestations just cause itching, but some cause blood loss and anemia. Tapeworms and other parasites are carried by fleas as well. Some dogs are allergic to fleas and will develop alopecia and/or allergic dermatitis simultaneously.
The next most common parasite is the tick. The main risk from ticks is the transmittance of Lyme disease, as significant blood loss would require many ticks. Lyme disease is a potentially serious bacterial infection and there are vaccines available.
Acral lick granuloma is a disorder that is a result of excessive licking. The wound is unable to heal and becomes painful, exacerbating the condition. The treatment includes preventing the dog from continuing the behavior. Foul-tasting topical solutions and cone collars are available to solve the problem.
Hot spots are a common with dog skin problems. They are small areas of irritated, inflamed, and red skin. Treatment includes addressing the underlying cause.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
What Are Dog Hot Spots And Ways To Treat Them
Hairless areas on your dog that seem sensitive, and perhaps ooze a clear fluid or pus may be dog hot spots. Inflamed skin has allowed an infection to take hold, and the resulting area becomes extremely sensitive, perhaps painful or itchy. Properly called pyotraumatic dermatitis by veterinarians, these bacterial infections of the skin have several causes, including allergies, improper or insufficient grooming, and behavioral issues.
Irritation of the skin is necessary before an infection can take hold in a dog with a normal immune system. This irritation can result from allergies to parasites, food, or environment, matting or fur that creates a buildup of moisture and debris, or excessive licking or scratching caused by allergies, boredom, anxiety, or other behavioral issues.
Treatment requires supervision by a veterinarian, in case there is more to the issue than there appears to be. Probably, the suggested treatment will be clipping fur around the inflamed area short to allow access, and then washing on a regular basis with a gentle cleanser or antiseptic. If the irritation was caused by licking or scratching, the use of an e-collar might be recommended until the area heals.
The skin infection can often be treated relatively easily, but there is usually a larger problem behind it. Until this larger problem is resolved, the skin infections will only continue. Figuring out what is making the dog susceptible to these infections is the only way to stop them for good.
For dogs that have developed these issues because of improper grooming, better and more frequent grooming is indicated. Regular grooming sessions (twice a week or more) are necessary for the hygiene and health of dogs with long coats. Mats need to be removed at each grooming session, or they can result in excess moisture buildup against the skin. Clipping these mats out is sometimes necessary if they refuse to be detangled. Some owners are unable to provide their dogs with the necessary grooming needed for their health-- these owners can and should take their dog to a groomer regularly.
Allergic dogs can be allergic to almost anything they encounter regularly. Cleaning your dog's environment of as many of these possible allergens as is realistic is generally the first treatment. This requires treating for fleas, if any are present, treating the dog with a flea-preventative to avoid those that might be outdoors, switching to a lower-allergen food, and vacuuming to remove dust and pollen. Some dogs require an antihistamine, as well.
Behavioral issues such as licking can be the most difficult to treat. Usually, affected dogs are either bored or anxious. Treating these problems can help resolve the licking. Bored dogs will benefit from more exercise and training and toys to tire out the body and mind, and anxious dogs will benefit from similar help, as well as other exercises suggested by a trainer or behaviorist. Sometimes, anti-anxiety medications are called for.
Dog hot spots are an indication that something else is wrong with your pet. Aside from treatment for the issue itself, get some suggestions from your veterinarian as to how to resolve the larger issue. With appropriate care, most dogs can recover from the underlying problem and the skin issues will resolve themselves.
Irritation of the skin is necessary before an infection can take hold in a dog with a normal immune system. This irritation can result from allergies to parasites, food, or environment, matting or fur that creates a buildup of moisture and debris, or excessive licking or scratching caused by allergies, boredom, anxiety, or other behavioral issues.
Treatment requires supervision by a veterinarian, in case there is more to the issue than there appears to be. Probably, the suggested treatment will be clipping fur around the inflamed area short to allow access, and then washing on a regular basis with a gentle cleanser or antiseptic. If the irritation was caused by licking or scratching, the use of an e-collar might be recommended until the area heals.
The skin infection can often be treated relatively easily, but there is usually a larger problem behind it. Until this larger problem is resolved, the skin infections will only continue. Figuring out what is making the dog susceptible to these infections is the only way to stop them for good.
For dogs that have developed these issues because of improper grooming, better and more frequent grooming is indicated. Regular grooming sessions (twice a week or more) are necessary for the hygiene and health of dogs with long coats. Mats need to be removed at each grooming session, or they can result in excess moisture buildup against the skin. Clipping these mats out is sometimes necessary if they refuse to be detangled. Some owners are unable to provide their dogs with the necessary grooming needed for their health-- these owners can and should take their dog to a groomer regularly.
Allergic dogs can be allergic to almost anything they encounter regularly. Cleaning your dog's environment of as many of these possible allergens as is realistic is generally the first treatment. This requires treating for fleas, if any are present, treating the dog with a flea-preventative to avoid those that might be outdoors, switching to a lower-allergen food, and vacuuming to remove dust and pollen. Some dogs require an antihistamine, as well.
Behavioral issues such as licking can be the most difficult to treat. Usually, affected dogs are either bored or anxious. Treating these problems can help resolve the licking. Bored dogs will benefit from more exercise and training and toys to tire out the body and mind, and anxious dogs will benefit from similar help, as well as other exercises suggested by a trainer or behaviorist. Sometimes, anti-anxiety medications are called for.
Dog hot spots are an indication that something else is wrong with your pet. Aside from treatment for the issue itself, get some suggestions from your veterinarian as to how to resolve the larger issue. With appropriate care, most dogs can recover from the underlying problem and the skin issues will resolve themselves.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Different Kinds Of Dog Skin Problems
The health of an animal is shown by the quality of its skin. Poor quality usually indicates another more serious underlying condition. Dog skin problems can have many sources. Among these are pest infestations; fungus, bacteria or yeast infections; and different forms of allergies. If any noticeable changes in the external health of a pet is discerned, a professional should be consulted. Leaving conditions untreated can further compromise a pets well being and pass infections to others, including humans.
Dog skin problems are discovered by simple observation. If a dog frantically scratches or frequently licks or chews itself, these are tell-tale signs something is wrong. Another behavior a pet performs to show its discomfort is rubbing against carpets or furniture. These behaviors should signal to owners that a closer look at their pet is necessary.
If there are any scabs, scaly patches, bald spots, rashes or lesions, a veterinarian should be notified. Other reasons for concern include redness, blood, pus, swelling, lumps or discoloration. There are many different conditions that can cause these symptoms and they are best detected by a professional.
Pests may be the culprit. Fleas can cause irritation with their bites and droppings. Allergic reactions to the saliva in a flea bite can also occur. Unfortunately, sometimes negative reactions can be the result of attempts to eliminate fleas. Certain powders, sprays and other formulas toxic to fleas can also be irritants to a pet.
Different infections can plague the skins surface. These include fungal, bacterial or yeast type infections. Fungal infections can include ringworm. Ringworm can result in the presence of scaly patches, baldness and irritation. Ringworm is particularly troublesome as it can be passed to other animals as well as people if left untreated. Bacterial or yeast infections normally occur only after the skin is compromised, further exacerbating the original problem.
Allergies also affect skin health. Allergies can flare due to irritants in the natural outdoor environment. Pollen, dust, mold or grass can all cause an unpleasant reaction in a pet. Generally symptoms improve or get worse with the changing seasons. Allergies due to food have some common sources. Usually chicken, soy, beef, wheat or corn based ingredients cause pets the most issues. Some additives, including food colorings, can be aggravating as well.
Problems can be behavioral in nature. Dogs that are stressed can gnaw on themselves or continuously lick their bodies. This may also be the symptom of feelings of profound boredom. Dogs should be allowed to exercise daily and be given plenty of attention to ensure that they are both happy and healthy.
A majority of these problems can be avoided. One such method is by using only gentle and dog intended products. Pets should be fed healthy and nutritious meals with limited artificial or nutrient empty ingredients. Hypoallergenic diets are highly recommended. Make sure the dog has a quiet, calm and clean environment. This will reduce stress and make it harder for pests to thrive. Veterinarians can also provide methods to prevent parasite infestations and to treat fleas.
Dog skin problems are discovered by simple observation. If a dog frantically scratches or frequently licks or chews itself, these are tell-tale signs something is wrong. Another behavior a pet performs to show its discomfort is rubbing against carpets or furniture. These behaviors should signal to owners that a closer look at their pet is necessary.
If there are any scabs, scaly patches, bald spots, rashes or lesions, a veterinarian should be notified. Other reasons for concern include redness, blood, pus, swelling, lumps or discoloration. There are many different conditions that can cause these symptoms and they are best detected by a professional.
Pests may be the culprit. Fleas can cause irritation with their bites and droppings. Allergic reactions to the saliva in a flea bite can also occur. Unfortunately, sometimes negative reactions can be the result of attempts to eliminate fleas. Certain powders, sprays and other formulas toxic to fleas can also be irritants to a pet.
Different infections can plague the skins surface. These include fungal, bacterial or yeast type infections. Fungal infections can include ringworm. Ringworm can result in the presence of scaly patches, baldness and irritation. Ringworm is particularly troublesome as it can be passed to other animals as well as people if left untreated. Bacterial or yeast infections normally occur only after the skin is compromised, further exacerbating the original problem.
Allergies also affect skin health. Allergies can flare due to irritants in the natural outdoor environment. Pollen, dust, mold or grass can all cause an unpleasant reaction in a pet. Generally symptoms improve or get worse with the changing seasons. Allergies due to food have some common sources. Usually chicken, soy, beef, wheat or corn based ingredients cause pets the most issues. Some additives, including food colorings, can be aggravating as well.
Problems can be behavioral in nature. Dogs that are stressed can gnaw on themselves or continuously lick their bodies. This may also be the symptom of feelings of profound boredom. Dogs should be allowed to exercise daily and be given plenty of attention to ensure that they are both happy and healthy.
A majority of these problems can be avoided. One such method is by using only gentle and dog intended products. Pets should be fed healthy and nutritious meals with limited artificial or nutrient empty ingredients. Hypoallergenic diets are highly recommended. Make sure the dog has a quiet, calm and clean environment. This will reduce stress and make it harder for pests to thrive. Veterinarians can also provide methods to prevent parasite infestations and to treat fleas.
Monday, February 14, 2011
How To Cure Dog Hot Spots
Dog hot spots, sometimes referred to as moist dermatitis, are a common skin condition experienced by dogs, which is brought on by persistent licking and gnawing at an inflamed area that is causing it irritation. A small inflamed spot can rapidly flare up to cover a much larger surface area, and if left untreated can result in painful pussy lesions causing much discomfort.
Symptoms: Moist dermatitis can be recognized as a hot patch of moist, reddened skin, which is very obviously causing the dog much discomfort and distress. In extreme cases where the skin is broken, the area may be bleeding, and if left untreated can develop into pussy secretions as infection sets in.
Causes: Environmental allergies stemming from grass seeds, pollen, house dust, or reactions to fleas can all cause allergic skin reactions, whilst some dogs are allergic to certain types of foods, or to food additives, which can cause an allergic skin reaction. However, mange mites, anal gland impaction, and side affects from veterinary medicines or injections, may also cause allergic skin reactions in dogs. Dogs with sensitive skins may come out in a skin rash following grooming or shaving, which if aggravated by constant biting at the area could result in moist dermatitis. Moist dermatitis is common amongst all breeds of dogs, but Retrievers, collies and shepherds are more susceptible due to their long thick fur.
Treatment: To treat these types of skin allergies it is necessary to first treat the symptoms, and then to isolate and treat the cause of problem in order to prevent recurrence. When treating a dog at home, it may be necessary to restrain or even sedate the dog, as the skin my be painful to touch, causing him to show aggression when handled. After treatment an Elizabethan collar may need to be temporarily fitted to allow the area to heal without the dog interfering with the wound.
The following steps need to be taken to treat the affected area:
Firstly, the hair surrounding the inflammation needs to be clipped or shaved short so that the infected area can be properly treated.
Wash the affected area with a mild antibacterial soap or shampoo, then gently towel dry to ensure moisture removal, without causing further discomfort to the area.
Keep the inflamed area cool by applying cool compresses. Home remedies using tea bags as a compress to help cool down the skin also help to dry out the lesions.
Depending on the severity of the inflammation and infection, you may need to take a multi-pronged approach to treating the skin lesions. This may include administering oral antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection and antihistamines to reduce inflammation, or the application of a hydro-cortisone or anti-bacterial cream or ointment.
But no matter how successful your treatment, dog hot spots will recur unless the cause of the problem is addressed. You will need to ascertain whether the allergy is food related or caused by some stimulus in the environment, or whether there is some other underlying cause of the reaction. You will then need to take steps to prevent it from flaring up again as this will not only save you time and money, but will spare you and your dog further anguish as well.
Symptoms: Moist dermatitis can be recognized as a hot patch of moist, reddened skin, which is very obviously causing the dog much discomfort and distress. In extreme cases where the skin is broken, the area may be bleeding, and if left untreated can develop into pussy secretions as infection sets in.
Causes: Environmental allergies stemming from grass seeds, pollen, house dust, or reactions to fleas can all cause allergic skin reactions, whilst some dogs are allergic to certain types of foods, or to food additives, which can cause an allergic skin reaction. However, mange mites, anal gland impaction, and side affects from veterinary medicines or injections, may also cause allergic skin reactions in dogs. Dogs with sensitive skins may come out in a skin rash following grooming or shaving, which if aggravated by constant biting at the area could result in moist dermatitis. Moist dermatitis is common amongst all breeds of dogs, but Retrievers, collies and shepherds are more susceptible due to their long thick fur.
Treatment: To treat these types of skin allergies it is necessary to first treat the symptoms, and then to isolate and treat the cause of problem in order to prevent recurrence. When treating a dog at home, it may be necessary to restrain or even sedate the dog, as the skin my be painful to touch, causing him to show aggression when handled. After treatment an Elizabethan collar may need to be temporarily fitted to allow the area to heal without the dog interfering with the wound.
The following steps need to be taken to treat the affected area:
Firstly, the hair surrounding the inflammation needs to be clipped or shaved short so that the infected area can be properly treated.
Wash the affected area with a mild antibacterial soap or shampoo, then gently towel dry to ensure moisture removal, without causing further discomfort to the area.
Keep the inflamed area cool by applying cool compresses. Home remedies using tea bags as a compress to help cool down the skin also help to dry out the lesions.
Depending on the severity of the inflammation and infection, you may need to take a multi-pronged approach to treating the skin lesions. This may include administering oral antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection and antihistamines to reduce inflammation, or the application of a hydro-cortisone or anti-bacterial cream or ointment.
But no matter how successful your treatment, dog hot spots will recur unless the cause of the problem is addressed. You will need to ascertain whether the allergy is food related or caused by some stimulus in the environment, or whether there is some other underlying cause of the reaction. You will then need to take steps to prevent it from flaring up again as this will not only save you time and money, but will spare you and your dog further anguish as well.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Dog Allergies Treatment And Just What To Handle
But don't try to be a hero and act without proper
information. You shouldn't wash your dog more than twice a month, as this can cause their skin to become dry and itchy.
However, certain shampoos and remedies are available which are specially formulated for the unique requirements of dog
skin care.}
{If you do not know where to begin, consult a pet care specialist. These professionals are able to ask the right questions
and help you administer the proper cure.
information. You shouldn't wash your dog more than twice a month, as this can cause their skin to become dry and itchy.
However, certain shampoos and remedies are available which are specially formulated for the unique requirements of dog
skin care.}
{If you do not know where to begin, consult a pet care specialist. These professionals are able to ask the right questions
and help you administer the proper cure.
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