Tag Archives: dog skin care

Dog Care, General Health

Common Causes Of Skin Problems In Dogs

Has your dog seemed particularly itchy lately? Does Fido’s fur look a bit thin? If so, your pooch may have a skin issue. Our canine pals are susceptible to a variety of problems that can affect their skin and coats! A Roanoke, VA vet lists some common ones below.

Parasites

Fleas and ticks are the most common culprit, though they aren’t the only ones. Flea bites can make any pup itchy! However, sometimes dogs  become allergic to flea saliva. If this happens, your pooch may become extra itchy or inflamed after flea bites. You may also notice hair loss. As for ticks, these tiny arachnids can spread a host of diseases, and can also carry bacteria.

Mange

There are two types of mange that can afflict Fido. Sarcoptic mange, also known as canine scabies, is the most common. This type usually affects dogs that are stray or neglected. The other kind, demodectic mange, is typically found in pups with compromised immune systems. Mange can cause partial or complete hair loss, scabbing, sores, and itchiness.

Allergies

Just like people, dogs can become allergic to a variety of different substances. This is called allergic dermatitis. Your pet may also have reactions to lawn grasses, dust, pollen, mold, or even certain substances, such as carpet fibers. Food allergies can also cause skin problems, such as irritation and itchiness.

Infections

Another type of dermatitis is infectious dermatitis. This is typically caused by bacteria, fungus, or yeast. Ringworm would be one example of a fungal infection. This is spread through direct contact with a contaminated surface or animal. It leaves telltale rings of irritation, which are often accompanied by hair loss, dry skin, and/or inflammation. Yeast infections, on the other hand, are often caused by imbalance or overgrowth of funguses that are normally found on dogs’ skin. Dogs can also be susceptible to a variety of bacterial infections, or pyoderma. These can lead to issues such as sores, itching, and lesions.

Tips

Watch for signs that there is something going on with Fido’s skin, such as hair loss, redness, scaling, flaking, itching, odors, discoloration, and/or lesions. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything off. Ask your vet for tips on caring for your dog’s skin and coat.

Do you have questions about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Roanoke, VA animal clinic, today! 

Dog Care, General Care, General Health

5 Ways to Keep Your Dog’s Skin Healthy

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. The same is true for your dog! So, it makes sense that keeping your canine companion’s skin in good shape is the right thing to do. Read on for five tips from a Roanoke, VA veterinarian on keeping Fido’s skin healthy.

Feed the Proper Diet

One of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your dog’s skin healthy is to feed them a great diet. What your dog eats has a lot to do with how his skin and fur looks and feels! When Fido is receiving the proper nutrients through food, the skin and hair follicles stay healthy. Poor nutrition, on the other hand, makes for dry skin and a coarse, dull coat of fur. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation on a great food choice for your pooch.

Groom Your Pup

Regular grooming is another simple way to make sure your dog’s skin stays healthy. Brushing your dog ensures that grime and dirt is removed from the coat and doesn’t start to irritate the skin. And the occasional bath is a great way to keep the skin clean and moisturized. Just make sure not to bathe Fido too frequently, because this can backfire and wind up drying out the skin and coat.

Protect Against the Sun

Just like you, too much exposure to the sun isn’t a good thing for your dog’s skin. Dogs can get sunburnt just as easily as you can! It’s not likely to happen on areas of the body that are covered by thick fur, but it can easily occur on areas with thin fur or no fur at all, like the bridge of the nose or edges of the ears. If your dog will be spending time outdoors, try applying a canine-specific sunscreen.

Keep Up With Preventatives

Of course, a flea or tick infestation isn’t good for your dog’s skin, or their health in general. Prevent the problem entirely by keeping your dog up to date on a heartworm preventative and a flea and tick medication. Call your veterinarian if your dog is in need of these medications.

Schedule Veterinary Checkups

Last but not least, having your vet evaluate your dog’s skin and fur health on a regular basis is a fantastic way to give yourself peace of mind. Schedule your pooch’s next office visit with your Roanoke, VA animal hospital. We’re here to help!