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Save Your Dog’s Skin!

Posted by Bentley & Bella on 4th Mar 2016

If your dog is constantly scratching, this article is for you! Skin issues can be a big problem for dogs, but there are ways to help combat it and offer some relief. Here are some of the most common causes of skin problems in dogs, and ways to help save your dog from itching in misery!

Parasite Infestations

Parasites such as fleas, ticks and lice are always the first thing to look for if your dog is scratching. In large infestations, you may be able to visibly see the insects on your dog’s skin or coat. If there are fewer around, you may only see the “dirt” or leftover excrement of the parasites on your dog’s skin. You can check for this dirt by placing a white towel under your dog, and then brushing out his fur. If you see lots of specs of “dirt”, suspect parasites.

Many products are available for treating fleas, ticks, and lice including topical flea medications such as Advantage which work as a once a month application, oral products such as Capstar which begin to work immediately to protect your dog from the inside-out, and flea-collar products such as Seresto which can last up to 8 months without needed to reapply medications or attempt to give a pill.

Allergies

Allergies are another cause of itching, and may be due to environmental or food-based problems. Environmental allergies such as pollens and dust may cause irritation only on parts of the skin that are in contact with them, while food based allergies may cause systemic problems such as vomiting and diarrhea in addition to full-body itching and redness.

Treatment for allergies can include daily oral allergy medications, medicated shampoos such as Allergroom which help to remove environmental allergens from the skim, or an Oatmeal shampoo to soothe the skin. For food based allergies, switching to a grain-free diet, or a sensitive skin diet can help provide relief. In severe cases, a prescription diet such as Purina DRM (Dermatological) can help.

Skin Infections

In some cases, itching may be caused by the beginnings of a skin infection from yeast, bacterial or fungal origins. This may causes your dog to lick or chew at the area, and may also cause a bad odor such as a corn-chip or rancid smell. In severe cases, the infection may penetrate the skin, causing a painful swelling of fluid and pus called an abscess.

At home treatment of minor infections can include shampoos or wipes that contain Chlorhexidine or Ketohex solutions. An Elizabethan (cone) collar can also be used to prevent your dog from licking or chewing at the affected spot. Keeping the affected area clean and dry may also help clear up minor issues. If the infection doesn’t resolve or an abscess begins to appear, then professional treatment and antibiotics are needed.

Your dog doesn’t need to be an itchy mess if you know how to take care of the most common causes of scratching! Save your dog’s skin, and help Fido feel and look his best on the outside (and inside, too!)

With Love,

Mr. Bentley & Ms. Bella

About our Writers

bentley-bella.jpgPet Wish Pros is proud to have Bentley and Bella contributing to our pet health blog. For many years, Bentley has been passionate about improving and learning from the lives and experiences of homeless pets in the greater Atlanta area. Bella is usually busy discovering new pet health products and medications. In her free time, Bella enjoys working on her horse farm. Both Bentley and Bella are devoted to animal health & their experience allows them to keep you informed while saving YOU money! 

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