Skin infections in dogs

With the gradual increase in the temperature, the conditions are becoming favourable for bacteria and infection to multiply quickly. The warm and moist weather is when dogs are affected by various types of skin issues. Thus, in such weather it becomes all the more important that you take extra care of your pet.

The various kinds of skin infections that can affect canines include –

• Bacterial infection
• Parasitic infection
• Fungal infection
• Ticks and fleas
• Allergies
• Mange

It should be noted that skin infections can be a symptom of other diseases as well. Therefore you must regularly check underneath their coat for any cuts, abrasions, infections or wounds. Make it a routine to regularly comb and brush your pet.  This would not only keep their coat shiny and healthy but also improve blood circulation.

Most common skin problems in canines

Allergic Dermatitis

Allergic dermatitis is a type of skin allergy that can be caused by anything that your pet’s body considers an allergen. An allergen can be a grooming product, an ingredient in your dog’s food even certain environmental factors.

Redness and Rashes

Common symptoms

• Skin rashes
• Redness
• Blemishes
• Itching

Keep a tab on these symptoms and as soon as you suspect something take your beloved to the vet. It is also recommended that once you find the allergen you should remove it as soon as possible.

Ticks and Fleas

Every household which has a dog would be aware of tiny monsters called ticks.

Ticks and fleas are the most common problems of this weather. The weather conditions are perfect and the pet’s body proves to be the best breeding ground for these parasites. In an affected dog flea droppings and eggs are visible to the naked eye. Your pet can get ticks from other tick infested animal or when he goes for a walk. It is a myth that ticks climb on the trees, they lie in the shrubs and wait to attack.

Ticks are most commonly seen around the neck, head, inside the toes, tail and armpits, but they can be anywhere and slowly everywhere.

Common symptoms

• Itching
• Hot spots
• Flea droppings
• Scratching

Breeds most affected

Long hair and thick coat breeds like – St. Bernard, Golden Retrievers, Lhasa Apso, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Collie, Maltese are more susceptible to ticks. Ticks can infest any and every dog. You just need to keep your eyes open and keep checking within the coat. 

Tick Borne Diseases

If left untreated the ticks and fleas multiply very fast and become a huge problem for both you and your furry buddy. Ticks and fleas can also cause various tick borne diseases like tick fever and infections in your pet. The complications that ticks may cause include - blood loss, anaemia, skin infections, inflammation, tick paralysis, tapeworm infections and tick fever.

Tick Removal

It is important that you remove the ticks very carefully. While removing the ticks hold them very close to the skin and always use tweezers to pull them. Be careful that you don’t twist or squeeze them as this would spread the infection.

The right way to pull out ticks.

So act before the condition becomes too messy. There are varied options available in market like –

• Anti – tick collar
• Flea comb
• Anti – tick shampoo
• Anti – tick soap
• Anti – tick powder
• Anti – tick spray
• Anti – tick spa treatment

Apart from these options you should comb your pet every day; it is be a great way to keep ticks and fleas away. Run your fingers through the coat and keep a watch on flea droppings and eggs.

Dry and flaky skin

Dry and flaky skin can be a warning sign for many skin problems. It can be a symptom of allergies, infections and other skin diseases. But do not panic, it is possible that it is the effect of the weather or a grooming product that has left the skin dry.

Give your pet a balanced and healthy diet and make sure they get lots of fluids in the summers. Keep allergens away and stick to natural ingredients as far as possible. For a shiny coat and healthy skin omega – 3 and omega – 6 fatty acids are essential.

It is good idea to cool off your pet in summers, but make sure when you bathe you only use grooming products for dogs. Since the pH level of their skin greatly varies from our skin, so even the mildest baby soap can be harsh on their skin. Also don’t bathe them too much as this would lead to loss of essential oils from their skin.

Always remember that your pet’s skin is the mirror of their overall health. Make grooming a part of daily routine. Combing and brushing for even 10 days everyday will help your pet in the long run.

And like I always say, happy pet parenting.