Dog Skin Problems

Why are dog skin problems such a major issue? Because your dog is miserable, and if left untreated, can cause infection.



Weekly grooming will keep you aware of your dog's skin appearance. If you start to notice excess shedding or hot spots developing on the skin, call your vet and follow his instructions.Dog skin problems can lead to infections if not treated promptly.

We'll touch on two of the major skin problems:

MANGE There are two types of the mange skin disease. One is sarcoptic or scabies. The other is demodectic. Both are caused by a tiny parasite called a mite.

Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious to other dogs and can spread to people.

Pets with scabies have crusty sores and hair loss. The mites burrow under the skin and cause this condition. Because the dog constantly bites and scratches these areas, skin infection can occur.

Isolate the pet. Take your pet to the vet and have him shampooed and dipped once a week. Prednisone, a steroid, may be given to help control itching, as well as antibiotics if a skin infection has developed.

Treat other dogs that have come into contact with the infected pet even though they are not showing signs of the disease.

Demodectic mange is not contagious. It can occur in a single spot or all over. Dogs usually have patchy hair loss and scaly skin around the face.

This type of mange is caused by mites living in your pet's hair. Usually the condition will go away by itself, but your vet can give you topical creams that will kill the mites.

Also, dipping may be required once a week for an overall infestation and antibiotics given if a skin infection is present.

Flea Bite DermatitisThis condition happens if your dog is allergic to the bite of fleas. When a flea bites a pet or person, a secretion is emitted from the mouth to the skin. Sensitivity to this causes itching, scratching, red areas, swelling and heat.

If your dog or family member have these symptoms call your vet and doctor, respectively, to check out your pet and family member. Appropriate treatment will be given.

As in the previous flea and tick page, follow those guidelines to get rid of the parasites and practice prevention before the flea and tick season starts.