Canine skin diseases

Although dog skin diseases have numerous causes, they all have one thing in common; they make your dog miserable. If your pet displays signs of itching, inflamed skin, hair loss, crusty lesions or unpleasant discharge, have him examined by your veterinarian immediately.

Dog skin diseases can be divided into five major categories:

Fungal infections – are commonly referred to as ringworm due to its appearance on the skin. Typically, the fungus causes a circular red welt that is raised along the outer edges, giving the impression of a small worm lying just beneath the surface of the skin.

The ringworm fungus actually lives in soil so pets are exposed every time they go outside. However, mainly puppies and elderly dogs contract this fungal infection because these groups have weaker immune systems than healthy adult dogs. Humans are also susceptible to this type of dog skin disease.

Bacterial infections – are usually secondary problems that develop once a dog has opened the surface of the skin by scratching and chewing. This gives bacteria entry into the warm, moist areas that will support its growth, resulting in increased pain and swelling in the affected area, sometimes causing a pus discharge.

Puppy pyoderma is another type of bacterial infection common to dogs. It manifests itself much like teenage acne. Pus-filled bumps may appear on the head, chin and belly of infected dogs. Your vet will prescribe an antibiotic for treatment.

Allergy – dog skin diseases sometimes have their origin in an allergic reaction to a substance. The reaction may be caused by a food source, an insect bite or even an inhaled substance such as pollen or mold. Once the allergic reaction begins, a dog will lick, bite and scratch at the affected area, breaking the outer skin and allowing bacteria and/or fungi to come in and increase the trauma to the area.

Dog food allergies are on the increase as evidenced by the special canine diets sold in many veterinary offices. While flea bites will make any dog itch, some pets are hypersensitive to a flea’s saliva and will suffer an intense reaction to a single flea bite. Some dogs are allergic to grass, leading to compulsive scratching and hair loss. If you suspect your dog has signs of an allergic reaction, contact your vet immediately.

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Published on April 14, 2009 under Dogs And Family
Tags: A, advice, b, best dogs pain relief, best pain killers for dogs, best pain relief for dogs, best pet pain medication, best pet pain medications, best pet pain medicine, d, Dogs And Family, e, H, home & family, p, pet, pets_and_animals

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