Skin Care

Bacterial skin infections or Pyoderma can be a common condition in dogs with some breeds (German Shepherds, Shar Peis and Bulldogs) being more predisposed to the condition. Common causes for skin infections include allergies, parasites (fleas), dogs that aggressively scratch or lick at their skin, and breeds that have lots of skin folds which trap yeast and bacteria. Symptoms can include itchiness, hair loss, small red spots on the skin, scaly and crusty areas as well as a bad odour. Some skin conditions (such as hotspots) can be extremely painful and are often treated as an emergency or top priority when seen by a veterinarian.

Ringworm, contrary to its name, is not a worm but a fungal infection. Ringworm infections can be small localized lesions or large generalized infections. Ringworm infections are highly contagious and can be spread from pet to pet, pet to human and even human to pet! Ringworm is most often described as circular or irregular patches on the skin with variable scaling and the hair is usually stubbled or broken off. Ringworm is typically diagnosed by a physical exam with the use of an ultraviolet light known as a Wood’s lamp as well as a fungal culture. Depending on the type of infection or severity, treatment may include both topical and or oral antibiotics and antifungals.

Skin allergies are one of the most common conditions we see in dogs living in the Comox Valley. Three common allergic skin diseases are flea allergy dermatitis, atopic dermatitis (chronic itchy skin associated with environmental allergens) and food allergies. One of the most common being in our area is flea allergy dermatitis. Treatment for skin allergies can be lengthy and costly and usually involves a combination of treatments. Sometimes your veterinarian may suggest a referral to a dermatologist for further work up. Many dogs live their entire lives with skin allergies and require lifelong treatment. Treatment can include special diets, medicated shampoos, oral antibiotics, steroid therapy and or an antipruritic (anti-itch) medication.

Parasitic skin diseases such as mange or Demodex is an inflammatory parasitic disease of dogs characterized by an increased number of mites in the hair follicles and epidermis. Depending on whether you are dealing with a localized or generalized case of Demodex, treatment can range from doing nothing as most cases of localized Demodex resolve on their own, to long-term medication for those generalized, severe cases. Flea allergy dermatitis results in balding, scaly skin around the base of the ears and over the base of the tail. Preventative flea control is your best defense, especially during warmer months.