Category: Itchy Skin & Allergies

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Itchy Skin & Allergies Skin Disease

Hypothyroidism in Dogs and Its Affect on Skin

by Cate Burnette, RVT

A disease associated with middle-aged, female dogs, hypothyroidism results from a lack of production of the hormones thyroxine and triiodothyronine (T3) by the thyroid gland in the animal’s neck. These hormones regulate how the body makes proteins, uses energy, and how sensitive it is to other hormones. The disorder is usually caused either by inflammation or shrinkage of the thyroid gland.

While this endocrine disorder can be found in all dogs, the breeds most commonly affected include the Dachshund, the cocker spaniel, the golden retriever, Irish setter, Shetland sheepdog, and others.

Symptoms

Animals with hypothyroidism typically show considerable weight gain over time and may appear lethargic or unwilling to move. Other signs include dull hair coat, loss or thinning of hair, excessive shedding, and an inability to tolerate the cold. Some will have a thickening of the skin and increased skin pigment in areas of friction. Hypothyroid dogs have frequent ear and skin infections, resulting in severe itching and sores on the body from scratching. Other signs of hypothyroidism include a slow heart rate, an absence of heat cycles, and other non-specific symptoms that could be due to other diseases.

Left untreated, hypothyroid dogs can develop chronic constipation, anemia, corneal ulcers and other optical complications. High cholesterol levels, stroke, and heart disease can also be associated with hypothyroidism.

Prevention and Veterinary Treatment

While there is no known way to prevent the disease, animals with hypothyroidism benefit from life-long supplementation of the thyroid hormone in pill form and regular veterinary check-ups.

Natural Treatments

One of the best ways to combat the itchy, flaky skin and dull hair coat associated with hypothyroidism is to feed your dog extra vitamins in her normal meal by supplementing with foods high in the nutrients she needs.

Broccoli, baked sweet potatoes, carrots, fresh herbs, and green, leafy vegetables such as spinach or kale are high in the Vitamins C, A, and E that your dog needs to reduce itching and flaking, dry skin, and promote skin healing of scratches and sores. Niacin – also called Vitamin B3 – can be found in white chicken meat, wheat bran, anchovies and tuna, and calf or chicken liver. This nutrient has been found to promote new hair growth while strengthening the hair shafts of the coat already in place.

Bathing your dog in all-natural, FDA-approved organic shampoo containing colloidal oatmeal (oat solids in suspension) can relieve the inflammation and incessant scratching connected to this hormonal disorder. An organic, targeted anti-itch spray can direct its healing power of neem, oat extract, litchi, and aloe directly to your pup’s problem areas to bring immediate itch relief and promote healing.

Because veterinary treatment with synthetic hormones can take up to 6 weeks to work, its in your pup’s best interest to relieve some of her skin problems naturally while the medication takes effect.

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Food Itchy Skin & Allergies

How Food And Nutrients Positively Affect Your Dog’s Skin

by Cate Burnette, RVT

Just as in our human diets, the nutrients in your dog’s food can affect how her skin does its job – protecting and covering the muscles, bones, and internal organs in the canine body while providing a transport system for blood cells, oxygen, and water. A malnourished and dehydrated animal will show the effects of a lack of water and nutrients first in the skin by exhibiting dry and flaky skin cells, a decrease in skin pliability, and an inability of the skin to heal itself.

Re-introducing those particular nutrients – Vitamins A, C, E, and B3 – that nourish and promote skin health can be as simple as looking in your pantry or refrigerator and adding particular foods to your pet’s menu.

Using the list below, you can find safe, canine-friendly foods that your dog will love as a treat or special supplement, and that are easily added to her regular meal plan.

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Vitamin A is an essential vitamin for great skin health. It promotes new cell growth, boosts the immune system, and works to allow your dog’s cells to transcribe energy from one to the other – the prime component in healing.

Foods rich in Vitamin A include:

· Liver

· Sweet potatoes

· Carrots

· Dark, leafy greens, such as kale, spinach, collards, and turnip greens

· Butternut squash

· Dried parsley, basil, and oregano

· Cantaloupe

· Green peas

· Milk, both whole and non-fat

· Oatmeal

Vitamin C – ascorbic acid – works on your dog’s skin by developing and maintaining healthy blood vessels and scar tissue. A powerful anti-oxidant, this nutrient is known to combat the effects of aging and strengthen your pet’s immune system. A major component of cartilage, Vitamin C helps lubricate your pet’s joints and keep her skin soft and supple. Because vitamin C is one of the vitamins your pooch doesn’t manufacture in her own body, daily supplementation of foods rich in this nutrient are essential for her healthy skin.

Foods rich in Vitamin C include:

· Fresh thyme and parsley

· Dark, leafy greens, including kale, mustard greens, turnip greens, and watercress

· Broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts

· Kiwi fruit

· Oranges and tangerines

· Strawberries

· Cantaloupes

· Mangoes

Vitamin E is a group of 8 fat-soluble compounds – meaning it stays in your dog’s body – geared toward boosting your dog’s immune system and preventing the effects of aging. This nutrient functions at the cellular level by boosting the healing power of skin cells and promoting the destruction of cells that are already damaged. Vitamin E eases skin inflammation and facilitates the production of the collagen and elastin skin fibers that keep your pet’s skin soft and pliable.

Foods rich in Vitamin E include:

· Chopped almonds

· Shelled sunflower seeds

· Peanuts and organic peanut butter

· Cooked spinach

· Wheat germ

· Flaxseed, corn, and canola oil

· Broccoli

· Kiwi fruit

· Asparagus

· Butternut squash

Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is known to promote water retention in skin cells, effectively hydrating and moisturizing your dog’s skin. It also has been shown to help in the removal of dead skin cells that thicken and stiffen the upper layers of skin associated with such health conditions as dermatitis and hypothyroidism.

Foods rich in Niacin include:

· Wheat bran

· Fish, mainly anchovies, sardines, and tuna

· Liver

· Peanuts and organic peanut butter

· White-meat chicken

· Bacon

DOG for DOG is an all natural dog food and treat company with a mission to help dogs in need. You buy one we give one! 52,000 pounds were donated in 2013

Categories
Itchy Skin & Allergies

Natural Ingredients to Soothe a Dog’s Itchy Skin

by Cate Burnette

When your dog is constantly itchy and scratching, and your veterinarian prescribes antibiotics and steroids to help, you may want to look at natural ingredients to ease your pet’s suffering as a first line of defense.

Listed below are some super effective ingredients you should look for in products. Deciding what can best help your dog’s skin is a matter of research and, sometimes, trial and error.

Colloidal oatmeal is an FDA-approved all-natural ingredient used to help heal dry, flaky skin, heal bug bites, and stop the itching caused by allergies. Found mainly in canine shampoos and conditioners, oatmeal has been used in human medicine for generations for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Aloe vera extract brings immediate relief to flea and bug bites and helps relieve the itching of dry, flaky skin. It contains mineral, enzymes, and proteins that help soften the skin and coat of your dog. This organic product is used in human medicine for burn relief, both in minor sunburn pain, and in more serious, deeper skin burns.

Vervain, valerian, skullcap, and wild lettuce A combination of these organics reduces restlessness, treats anxiety, calms your dog’s nerves, and acts as a natural sedative and sleep aid during time of stress. The perfect tonic for a restless animal with dry, itchy skin, a drop of these all-natural ingredients on your dog’s food or tongue can quell her nerves and give the whole family a peaceful night’s sleep. You can buy it all bottled-up as well. Check out Sleepytime Tonic.

Citronella works on your pet’s skin to repel mosquitoes, flies, and gnats, while leaving her skin’s essential oils behind and not rendering flea and tick products useless. Often times citronella is overpowering, but Dirty & Hairy’s OUTDOOR range seem to have cracked the code on getting the benefits of citronella while minimizing the smell.

Lavender and eucalyptus essential oils act as natural remedies for many skin ailments, soothing irritations and inflammations, and protecting your pup against the allergens that can cause itchy skin. Eucalyptus oils also function as natural mosquito repellents. Check out the essential oil range from Cain & Able Collection.

Shea butter promoted the healing process of damaged skin, helps the cells retain moisture, and protects against the environmental damage of smog and chemicals. Additionally, shea butter is high in Vitamins E and A and rich in the essential fatty acids that keep your dog’s skin supple and healthy. You can find shea butter in products like Paw Rub.

Peppermint oil moisturizes your dog’s skin, and hydrates and detangles her fur. A hypoallergenic essential oil, peppermint leaves the coat soft and shiny and is safe for even the youngest puppy. Pepper oil also works as a natural repellent to most insects, particularly fleas and mosquitoes.

Wheat germ oil, leleshwa oil, and flaxseed oil This combination of essential oils work together to combat pesky biting insects, such as fleas and mosquitoes. Flaxseed acts against the inflammation of insect bites to relieve itching, while wheat germ oil contains the nutrients Vitamin E, zinc, some B vitamins, and other minerals that promote skin healing. You can find this powerhouse trio in Flea the Scene.

Tea tree oil is believed to have antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties that function to defend your pet’s skin from infection and disease. This essential oil works actively against Staphylococcus bacteria, the main microorganism behind many destructive skin infections. Note: a little goes a long way to solving the problem.

Categories
Ears Itchy Skin & Allergies

Home Remedies & Preventatives For Itchy Dogs

by Cate Burnette, RVT

While we always recommend seeing your veterinarian for any skin or ear infections, there are some home remedies that can help your dog prior to going to the vet, or after taking all medications. While they are not meant as a substitute for veterinary treatment, some of these remedies can also be used as preventative measures to keep your dog healthy.

Bathing –

Essential Oil Shampoo – Add a few drops of eucalyptus or pennyroyal essential oil to natural shampoo or castile soap. Rinse your dog with clear water. Rinse again with vinegar-water (1 tbsp. to 1 pint warm water). This easy-to-make shampoo and rinse removes soap residue and prevents the dandruff that can result in itchy skin.

Rosemary Conditioner – Steep 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary) in a pint of boiling water for 10 minutes, covered. Allow the rosemary water to cool to body temperature and pour it over your dog after her final rinse. Rub the mixture in and towel her dry without further rinsing. The rosemary in the conditioner repels fleas while promoting a soft, glossy coat.

Dry Shampoo – If your pooch hates getting into the water, an all-natural dry shampoo can keep her skin healthy and coat smelling good. Spread ½-cup to 1-cup of whole bran, uncooked oatmeal, or cornmeal on a cookie sheet and warm in the oven on low heat for 5 minutes to bring out the natural oils in the grain. Grab a handful of the grain (leaving the rest in the oven to stay warm) and rub it into your dog’s fur and skin with a towel, concentrating on the greasy, dirty areas. Then thoroughly brush the areas to remove all the grain. This dry shampoo exfoliates the skin while removing any nasty residue from your dog’s coat.

Flea Control –

Herbal Flea Powder – Combine one part each of as many of these dried and powdered herbs as you can find: rosemary, fennel, eucalyptus, rue, yellow dock, and wormwood. Put this mixture in a clean, dry shaker-type jar, like one used for parsley flakes or Parmesan cheese. Apply the flea powder sparingly to the base of your dog’s coat by brushing back the hair first, then sprinkling in small amounts around the neck, belly, and back. You’ll need to use the powder several times a week for a severe flea infestation, and place your pooch outside in they yard so the repelled fleas don’t end up in your home. Remember, this powder only repels the pests…it does not kill them.

Natural Skin Tonic – This lemon-based tonic not only repels fleas, it works as a general skin toner for itchy pets. Thinly slice a whole lemon, including the rind, and steep it overnight in a pot of boiling water. The cooling water draws out d-limonene, vitamin C, and other healing ingredients found in the whole lemon. The next day, sponge it on your dog’s skin and let the solution air-dry. You can use the lemon tonic daily for cases of heavy flea infestation.

Skin Conditions and Hair Loss –

Ringworm – Clip the hair around the bare spot and about ½-inch beyond it to keep the fungus from spreading. Take about a quarter cup of a whole plantain (Plantago major), chop it up, and place in one cup of spring or distilled water in a glass or enamel pot. Boil the concoction about five minutes and let the brew steep for three minutes covered. Strain and cool the liquid. Massage the plantain mixture onto the lesions once or twice a day until the condition clears.

You can also make an infusion of Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) by adding one rounded teaspoon of the powdered root stock to a cup of boiling distilled water. Let the mixture stand until cold, pour off the clear liquid and massage it into the lesions once or twice a day.

***Note: Please see your veterinarian for a clear diagnosis of ringworm before attempting this home treatment.

Skin Irritations – To heal minor skin infections, ringworm and other skin problems, you can apply essential oil of sandalwood or unrefined sea salt (mixed into a paste with water) to the affected areas as a way to enhance skin cell repair. If your dog has smelly skin and fur, mix one part whole cloves, one part broken cinnamon sticks, two parts myrrh gum (a tree resin), and two parts dried thyme. Rub into the hair and skin, and brush out thoroughly.

Hot Spots – Hot spots need to be healed from the inside and on the outside of the dog. On the outside, apply a warm, wet black tea bag to the affected spot. The tannic acids in the tea have a soothing, itch-relieving effect. Hold the bag on the skin for 4 to 5 minutes twice daily for three days. Following the tea bag treatments, apply aloe vera gel either directly from an open, fresh leaf or from a purchased gel. This speeds the healing process.

For the inside of the dog, you can supplement with vitamin B6, a natural antihistamine, or Rhus tox, a homeopathic remedy for irritated, red and itchy skin. Check with a holistic veterinarian for dosages for your dog when using these two products.

Hair Loss – Treat areas of hair loss with a blend of six parts wheat germ oil, three parts essential oil of lavender, one part each of rose geranium and rosemary essential oils, and 12 parts St. John’s Wort Oil (that is, olive oil infused with St. John’s Wort blossoms, not the essential oil). Spray the oil blend on the affected areas of hair loss and massage into the skin. These oils help improve circulation and stimulate the elimination of toxins by correcting body imbalances.

Ear Cleaning Solutions

***Note: Use prescribed veterinary medication on any diagnosed ear infections to rid your dog of the fungus or bacteria causing the problem.

To clean healthy ears and ears prior to medicating, wipe the inner ear with cotton balls soaked in a mixture of either one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to one quart of distilled water. As an alternative to the vinegar astringents, you can puncture a small hole in a vitamin E capsule and place a few drops on a cotton ball to clean your dog’s ears.

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Itchy Skin & Allergies

Prednisone and Other Steroids:Do They Do More Harm Than Good?

by Cate Burnette, RVT

Veterinarians typically prescribe topical and oral steroids as the first line of defense to combat your dog’s skin allergies and all the itching and scratching that comes with them. Atopy (a reaction to airborne allergens), plus food and flea bite allergies have all been shown to be lessened by the use of particular steroids. However, giving your dog these medications in large amounts and over an extended period of time can lead to dangerous, and often life-threatening side effects.

Finding a more natural, organic-based anti-inflammatory treatment is an option pet parents need to consider if a dog has been allergic for a long time.

PLEASE NOTE: we urge you to NOT take your pet off steroids, or lower the amount per dose, without discussing this issue with your veterinarian first.

How do steroids work in my dog’s body?

Glucocorticoid steroids, such as prednisone, prednisolone, and dexamethasone, are derived from cortisol, a hormone produced in the adrenal glands, tiny organs that sit on top of the kidneys. Cortisol – and steroids – works much the same way as adrenaline, regulating the absorption of glucose in your dog’s body and working to maintain high energy levels, particularly in times of stress or during exercise. At the high dosage levels prescribed by veterinarians, steroids minimize the inflammation associated with an allergic response.

How long should my dog be on steroids?

Veterinarians know that many dogs treated for extended periods of time with oral steroids tend to suffer from side effects, so if your pooch is on them for a time period longer than 2 to 3 weeks, you should be instructed to give the meds every other day. There are usually no side effects if the drug is given for a shorter time span. To combat the negative effects of the drugs when coming to the end of the prescription, most veterinarians recommend that your dog taper off the medication, giving less and less each day until the pills are all gone.

What are some side effects of steroids?

There are numerous side effects possible from giving your dog anti-inflammatory steroids, the most common of which is an increase in thirst and appetite. This, in turn, is followed by increased urine production and possible weight gain. Panting can be a common side effect and, just as in humans, steroids have been known to cause mood alterations in some animals – changing a normally placid dog into an irritable, snapping pet.

Long term steroid usage can lead to an overproduction of your dog’s own natural body steroid, cortisol – a condition known as Cushing’s disease. Cushing’s requires specific veterinary treatment to lower cortisol levels. Without that treatment, your dog can suffer from red, angry skin lesions, hair loss, and thickening of skin in the affected area. Diabetes, the over-abundance of glucose in your pet’s system, can also be caused by long-term use of glucocorticoids.

Are there any natural alternatives to steroids I can use to treat my dog’s skin problems?

The colloidal oatmeal in some organic, all-natural shampoos relieves the itching and inflammation seen in allergic dogs. Additionally, ultra-rich deep conditioners with shea butter plus oatmeal moisturize and condition your dog’s fur while healing her dry, flaky skin. Because so many skin allergies are caused by flea bites, all-natural flea protection sprays can help keep those unwanted pests away from your pooch. Those sprays containing peppermint oil, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil have been shown to be effective in repelling mosquitoes, fleas, and other bothersome insects.

To get more tips on how you can stop your dog’s constant scratching, click below to get our free ebook. Written by vets and holistic pet practitioners, it’s jam packed with ideas and solutions to make your dog’s life more comfortable.

itchy skin ebook lar2

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Itchy Skin & Allergies

OTC Drugs to Relieve My Dog’s Allergy Symptoms: What Can I Use, and What Is Best Left On The Drugstore Shelf?

by Cate Burnette

All that itching and scratching from allergies can drive both you and your dog crazy during warm weather months. You know that over-the-counter Benadryl works for you – will it work for your dog as well? And what about ibuprofen? Can either of these drugs relieve the itching and swelling associated with canine skin allergies?

One of them is commonly used in veterinary medicine and one is definitely NOT recommended. Read on to find the one that can work for your dog, but remember to ALWAYS see your veterinarian before giving your pet any human medications.

How does Benadryl work in my dog’s body?

Diphenhydramine, the active ingredient in Benadryl, blocks the action of histamines in your dog’s body. Histamines are organic proteins produced by white blood cells in a response to certain allergens. They trigger the inflammation that allows your dog’s immune system to combat the irritants that are causing the problems.

When your dog ingests the Benadryl, the cells that cause the puffiness, redness, irritation, and pain of inflammation don’t respond to the stimulant – and the swelling and itching goes away.

What dosage can I safely give my dog?

Over-the-counter Benadryl comes in two forms – a tablet and capsule. For your at-home pets, it’s probably best to purchase the 25mg. tablet because it’s easier to break into portions when you need it.

Typically, veterinarians recommend that you give your dog 1mg. per 1-lb. of body weight twice a day for one week. A dog 10 pounds or under can safely ingest half of a 25mg. tablet at a time with no ill effects, while a dog 10- to 25-lb. should be fine on the full 25mg. per dose. If your pooch weighs more than 25 pounds, you’ll need to go up in dosage to adjust…so a 50-lb. pooch would get 2 full tablets twice a day, and a 60-lb. dog would receive 2 ½ tablets two times daily.

Are there side effects of Benadryl?

There are no known major side effects for occasional, normal dosing of Benadryl. Your dog may appear drowsy or sedated after taking the drug…you may also notice dilated pupils and increased bowel movements.

However, over-dosing or giving the drug for extended periods of time longer than one week has been shown to cause bradycardia (a slowing of the heartbeat) in some dogs, so it is not recommended for use in dogs with heart problems.

Are there any natural alternatives to Benadryl?

You can try bathing your dog in an all-natural, oatmeal-based shampoo. The colloidal oatmeal found in some canine shampoos is FDA-approved to help relieve the itching and inflammation associated with allergies. Unlike the ingredients in other doggy shampoos, the oatmeal also naturally moisturizes and rejuvenates skin tissues.

If your pooch is itching in particular areas, consider using an organic, anti-itch spray that goes directly to the parts most affected. The ingredients in these all-natural sprays, including oat extract, aloe vera, and litchi, work to soothe irritated skin, while other components, including boswellia serrata and calendula, can reduce redness and swelling.

Can I use ibuprofen to help with the inflammation from all that scratching?

Veterinarians DO NOT suggest using over-the-counter drugs containing ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin) to your dog for any reason. Ibuprofen has been shown to lead to gastrointestinal upsets, bleeding stomach ulcers, and, if given over an extended period of time, kidney failure. The signs of ibuprofen toxicity include:

  • Vomiting
  • Black, tarry stools
  • Vomiting blood
  • Lack of appetite
  • Abdominal pain
  • Weakness
  • Lethargy
  • Dehydration

If you suspect your dog has eaten any ibuprofen, we recommend seeking immediate veterinary care.

Categories
Itchy Skin & Allergies

My dog keeps scratching. Why does this happen and what should I do?

by Cate Burnette, RVT

With the advent of warm weather, many pet parents notice their dogs begin to itch and scratch consistently, often licking and biting their paws, ears, and bellies to the point where there is significant hair loss and open wounds on the skin. Living with an allergic pup can be a constant battle with skin infections, sores, and hot spots – unless you can learn why they occur and what you can do to help prevent them.

What are the causes of the different types of canine skin allergies?

There are several types of skin allergies that can affect your dog and cause her pain and itching.

Atopic dermatitis, called canine atopy, is fairly common, affecting approximately 10 percent of all dogs, most particularly Golden and Labrador retrievers, Lhasa apsos, Dalmatians, poodles, boxers, bulldogs, West Highland white terriers, wire fox terriers, and Irish and English setters.

Dogs afflicted with atopy react first to air-borne pollens, which explains why your pooch may be itchier in the spring and fall months when pollen and ragweed are at their highest levels. Eventually, your dog will show signs of allergic reactions to mold, dust, feathers, and wool – all of those same airborne allergens that can affect you. The constant itching and scratching can lead to hair loss, with her skin becoming flaky and thick. You may even notice signs of a runny nose and eyes and frequent ear infections.

Flea allergy dermatitis is the most common skin allergy seen in dogs. Often, just the bite of a single flea can cause a pup sensitive to certain substances in flea saliva to break out in red, inflamed bumps on the skin and severe itching. This type of reaction is at its worst in high summer when fleas are most common, but can last all year round if you don’t have good flea control in your home.

Once the fleas have been eliminated, your dog may need topical and oral antibiotics to clear up any secondary skin infections and natural grooming products to bring her coat and skin back to normal. An all-natural flea spray containing no pesticides or poisons can keep the pests away while restoring your pet’s hair and skin to its optimal condition.

Food allergies occur when some substance in your pet’s food causes her body to react in the way it does with airborne allergens. Common triggers include wheat and corn products and protein-heavy foods, such as meat/beef, dairy, and chicken. In many cases, a dog can go for years eating the same kind of food without a reaction, and then develop a sudden sensitivity to it.

Typical symptoms of food allergies include facial itching, foot or leg chewing, recurrent ear infections, and belly itching. You can suspect your pup has food allergies if the itchiness is not a seasonal problem like atopy, if she isn’t responding to cortisone-types of veterinary medications, and if her skin issues developed after the age of 5 or 6.

Contact dermatitis is a fairly uncommon disease caused by direct contact of your pet’s skin with certain plants and grasses, medications, and particular chemicals. Humans are much more susceptible to contact skin allergies than canines because a dog’s hair coat works as a barrier to the allergen. However, if your pooch is sensitive to certain irritants or chemicals like those found in flea collars or particular grasses, you’ll notice the signs on the parts of her body making direct contact with the substance – around her neck, on her belly, legs or feet.

Depending on the substance, you’ll start to see red, itchy bumps appear within 24 to 48 hours after contact with the offending substance if your dog is allergic. If she experiences an irritant reaction, the signs are almost immediate, with painful blisters and ulcerations appearing on her skin. She is liable to develop secondary bacterial skin infections due to the subsequent inflammation and trauma.

How can my veterinarian tell what is going on?
Your veterinarian will want a complete history during his or her initial examination of your pet to rule out any food or contact allergies. You may be asked to stop feeding your dog her normal food and give her several different specially-formulated hypoallergenic diets to see if the itching abates while she’s eating one of them.

Typically, veterinarians take hair and skin samples to look for bacterial and yeast infections, and, if the irritation is particularly widespread, may ask to draw a blood sample to check a white blood cell count and prescribe appropriate antibiotics.

Your vet may also suggest that you take your dog to a veterinary dermatologist for a series of skin patch tests to determine which allergens are specifically causing her problems.

What are the veterinary treatments for skin allergies?
Traditional veterinary treatments typically revolve around removing the irritant from your dog’s presence. You’ll need to change her to an all-natural, hypoallergenic diet if food is determined to be the cause of her itching. You may have to clean and wipe her feet if grass is the problem, and in the case of air-borne allergens, your vet may suggest keeping her inside during times of high pollen counts or other irritants.

Veterinary shampoos containing antibiotics are often prescribed to help the skin heal and your pet may be given systemic antibiotics to clear up any lingering skin infections. Typically, veterinarians also prescribe either oral or injectable steroids to be given over a period of 1 to 2 weeks to help stabilize your pet’s immune system.

How can I treat my dog’s itchy skin with natural ingredients?
Once you’ve gotten a diagnosis and treatment from your veterinarian on any secondary skin infections, you’re left with the problem of your dog’s itchy, flaky skin. All-natural topical treatments, including organic shampoos and conditioners, can reverse the skin and hair damage caused by biting and scratching without the side effects of chemicals. Look for these types of ingredients in doggy bath products to return your pet to her healthy, happy self.

The following organics are just a few of the ingredients that can help keep your dog from itching:

Aloe Vera maintains the natural pH balance of your pet’s hair and skin, while encouraging cell growth. Aloe vera’s amino acids protect against skin damage, aid in preventing recurring flare-ups of inflammation, and soothe the skin.

Organic Chamomile reduces inflammation, strengthens your pet’s skin, and softens and smooths skin roughened by incessant scratching and biting. A shampoo or leave-in conditioner containing chamomile can keep your dog’s hair shiny and clean, while moisturizing her skin at the same time.

Organic Coconut Oils contains naturally occurring vitamins, anti-oxidants, proteins, and fats to protect your dog’s hair and skin. Absorbing quickly into your dog’s skin cells, coconut oil will leave her hair supple and shiny, and can guard against sun damage.

Organic Oatmeal is a natural moisturizer and anti-inflammatory, reducing the redness and itching that comes with skin allergies. An oatmeal-based shampoo during bath time can bring relief for dogs suffering from skin irritations and hot spots.

Categories
Ears Itchy Skin & Allergies

Does your dog suffer from the most common health problems?

by Audrey Harvey, DVM

Although veterinary practice can be exciting and challenging, most of our work is treating the same conditions in our canine patients over and over.  A recent survey indicated that the three most common reasons for a dog visiting their vet are ear infections, skin allergies and hot spots.  Interestingly, these three conditions can share common causes.

1. Ear Infections

The symptoms of ear infections in dogs are hard to miss.  Your dog will shake his head and scratch his ear, often groaning or yelping in pain.  If you have a look inside his ear, it may be red and swollen and it often smells bad.  Estimates suggest that up to 20% of dogs have infection and inflammation inside their ear and many chronic ear infections in dogs are secondary to skin allergies.  In most cases, ear problems need veterinary attention to work out the exact cause of the infection and identify the appropriate treatment.

How can you prevent your dog developing painful inflammation in the ear?

Regular use of Cain & Able ear cleanser will remove moisture and wax accumulation that can predispose to infection.  Its all natural ingredients include essential oil extracts and willow bark extract.  These have a natural anti-inflammatory effect and help soothe irritation inside the ear canal.

Colloidal silver is a natural antibiotic, and is the main ingredient in Ear Wipes.  These wipes are easy and convenient to use.  They will remove odor and help to prevent bacteria multiplying in your dog’s ear.

What you should know about your dog’s ear infection

2. Skin Allergies

Itching, scratching, licking and chewing – your dog’s skin allergies can really make life miserable for him. The commonest allergens in dogs are food, fleas and dusts and pollens in the environment.

When the skin is inflamed, the normal bacteria and fungi that inhabit it can cause secondary infections.  These infections also itch, and they cause that strong “doggie smell” that is so unpleasant.

Oatmeal has been proven by the FDA to reduce skin inflammation and ease itching.  Comfy Dog oatmeal shampoo used regularly will quickly ease your dog’s itchy skin, and start him on the road to healing.  As well as oatmeal, it contains several all-natural herbal ingredients that soothe skin irritation and stop itching.  Follow it up with Fur Butter conditioner and not only will he stop scratching, but his coat will be thick and luxurious and smell great.

How oatmeal helps to heal a dog’s itchy skin

3. Hot Spots

A hot spot is also known as acute moist pyoderma.  It is a bacterial infection of the skin that is often associated with skin allergies.  They often affect short coated breeds such as Labrador Retrievers.  These infections appear suddenly and spread rapidly; because your dog will constantly scratch them, the hot spots can go from the size of a quarter to the size of your palm in a matter of hours.  They are also extremely painful.

These acute infections usually need veterinary treatment to get them under control, however you can play your part at home by cleaning the area with Comfy Dog shampoo.  The oatmeal will soothe the red inflamed skin and give your dog rapid relief.

Follow this with a spray with Itchin’ for Relief.  Its oat extract and aloe vera will quickly ease the itch and stop the scratching.  This will allow the skin to heal.

What you can do about your dog’s hot spots

Although these conditions are common among dogs, they needn’t cause your dog serious problems.  Watch for any symptoms and treat them quickly, and his skin and coat will stay healthy.

Categories
Itchy Skin & Allergies

Can canine allergy shots help my itchy dog?

by Audrey Harvey, DVM

Canine Allergy Shots

Allergies are some of the most common causes of itching and scratching in dogs.  One way in which they can be managed is with canine allergy shots.  They are effective in reducing skin irritation and itching in up to 80% of allergic dogs.

These allergy shots consist of tiny amounts of the substances your dog is allergic to.  They are injected weekly at first, and as his immune system learns to tolerate the allergens, his symptoms will ease.  Over time, the frequency of the injections is reduced to every other week, and they are eventually given just once a month.

It can cost several hundred dollars to test your dog for allergens and to produce his specific allergy shot, and you won’t see results straight away.  Even if your dog responds well, he may still have flare ups from time to time and need other treatments to keep him comfortable.

You may be a bit nervous about giving your dog injections.  If that’s the case, then your vet can do it for you.  I have had quite a few canine patients visit me regularly so I could give them their allergy shots.

When to Reach for the Needle

Veterinary dermatologists recommend that if you are thinking about using allergy shots to treat your itchy dog, then you start them when he is young.  There are several reasons for this:

1.  If you can reduce your dog’s reaction to one allergen, then he is less likely to become sensitive to other substances as he gets older.

2.  Allergens can pass easily through traumatized skin and cause even more irritation and inflammation.  Allergy shots will reduce itching and scratching, and prevent the skin damage that can lead to further allergic reactions.

3.  Allergy shots are very safe with no side effects, so they are better for your dog’s long term health.

Natural Treatments for Skin Allergies

Even if you do choose to treat your dog with allergy shots, veterinary dermatologists recommend the use of a combination of other treatments at the same time.  There are a range of products that can be safely used to control the occasional itchy outbreak and keep his skin and coat in good health.

Comfy Dog Colloidal Oatmeal Shampoo.  This mild shampoo is specifically formulated with oat protein, burdock extract and marshmallow extract to soothe skin irritation and reduce inflammation.  It is gentle enough to use on the most sensitive skin.

Fur Butter.  This rich after-bath conditioner also contains oatmeal, as well as plant extracts to ease itching.  Vitamins A and E add moisture to the skin and coat, leaving your dog’s fur soft, shiny and easy to brush.  Apply Fur Butter after a bath when he is still wet and massage it thoroughly into his coat.  Leave it for a few minutes before rinsing it off.

Itchin’ for Relief.  In spite of your best efforts, there will be times when your dog has an itchy spot that he just won’t stop scratching.  This is when you should reach for Itchin’ for Relief.  Its nozzle allows you to spray it right on the itchy area, so its aloe vera and oat extract can soothe the irritation and stop the itch.

Whatever allergy treatment you choose for your dog, these products will certainly help to control the annoying symptoms and keep his skin and coat in the best possible condition.

Categories
Itchy Skin & Allergies Old Age Paws Skin Disease

Will a Paw Rub help my dog’s dry cracked paws?

Dogs paws and paw rub With summer drawing to a close and cooler weather coming in you can look forward to taking your best friend for walks in crisper temperatures and even (heaven forbid) a little frost and (gasp) snow!.

The colder weather emerges and so do dry cracked paw pads. Luckily this year you can be armed with information that will help you combat this affliction.

Before we go any further let’s start by saying if you have a dog with pads that are so dry they’re bleeding and raw stop reading right now and get your dog to the vet. You can stop to bandage them, add a little antibiotic cream to prevent infection and use (clean) socks to cover the bandaging. Do not mess around with this! Your dog’s feet come in contact with some pretty nasty items and infection is a distinct possibility.

It goes without saying that you do not want to let things get this bad. This is the best time of the year to nip this in the bud; before the weather gets cold and icy.

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If your dog is starting to exhibit greyness on the paws your first thought may be “how about some hand cream or even better petroleum jelly, that always works for me”. What’s wrong with that?

Well this may be a good time for a pop quiz;

You slather healing cream on your dogs cracked paws, making sure to get between the toes…ah relief…Question; what happens next?

I know you all got the right answer… you are dog owners after all, yes…He licks it off!

Not your dogs fault, he likes to be clean! And licking is his only option (the wet naps need opposable thumbs to operate).

So considering this fact it’s probably better if the creme you use exhibits two key properties.1. It absorbs (and moisturizes) quickly, and 2. it’s perfectly safe to ingest. Both Cain and Able Paw Rub and Happytails BowWow Butter Balm were created with these two properties in mind and it turns out that a single ingredient is perfect in this situation; All natural shea butter. few things absorb as quickly and moisturize as deeply as shea butter, all while being perfectly safe to ingest.

Obviously it’s a good idea to prevent your dog from licking it off (it will heal the pad faster). here’s where a little distraction or a treat will come in handy, or you can always use that pair of socks or even better, booties to make it harder for him to get at his paws.

As winter approaches be careful of salted sidewalks. it’s a good idea to keep a bottle of Dry Dog Instant Clean and a rag by the door. When you return from your walk spry a little on the pads and wipe off all that dry dirty salt before it’s licked off. Not only will this help with dryness and cracking but also many of the chemicals used to melt ice and snow are poisonous to your dog.

With a little forethought and planning the winter months will come and go without incident and both you and your best friend will be ready for the thaw with painless pads and a spring in his step.

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