A common ‘itchy skin’ condition we see in dogs is atopic dermatitis.
This inflammatory disease is caused by a reaction to allergens in the environment, similar to the common triggers of asthma and hay-fever in humans. It is particularly troublesome in Spring and Summer but can occur all year round.
Common allergens that can contribute to atopic dermatitis:
- Grasses
- Trees
- Plant pollen
- Dust mites
- Insects
- Moulds
The signs associated with atopic dermatitis generally consist of itching, scratching, rubbing, biting, and licking. They usually appear in dogs between the ages of 1 and 6 years old. Skin affected by atopic dermatitis is commonly red or pink in colour, flakey, leathery or develops pustules, thinning hair and ulcers or secondary skin infections.
Common areas of the body affected by atopic dermatitis:
- Ears (recurrent ear infections are common)
- The feet and in between the toes
- The armpits
- The groin and anal glands
- Around the eyes
Diagnosis and management of atopic dermatitis relies on a thorough history of your dog’s symptoms and a thorough physical examination. It is essential that all potential parasitic causes (such as the common the flea) and food allergies are ruled out.
Your dog may also undergo further allergy testing and these results can be used to formulate a unique desensitising allergy vaccine.
When it comes to managing the “itchy pet”, there is, unfortunately, no magic pill that cures all cases. It’s all about prevention, careful management and taking action before things get out of control.
The good news is that there are drugs available that can greatly improve your dog’s comfort and we can discuss these with you.
There are even a few things you can do at home to help your pet stay itch free:
- Be vigilant with flea prevention all year round for all pets in your family. Fleas are THE major cause of an itchy pet and consistent use of flea treatment is easier and cheaper than trying to get rid of the itch. Ask us for the best flea treatment available for your pet.
- A premium balanced diet is essential to keep your pet’s skin and coat in top shape. This will provide a good barrier against potential allergens – ask us for a recommendation. Please note that grain specific allergies are an uncommon allergy in dogs, and that grain free diets may predispose dogs to vitamin deficiencies and heart disease.
- Always wash your dog in pet-approved shampoo and conditioner. A product containing ceramides can help rebuild the epidermal barrier and reduce allergen exposure.
- Medication to help reduce the immune system’s response to the allergen can greatly reduce an itch, and can be used both during flare-ups and for ongoing management – chat with us to find out what’s suitable for your pet.
If you notice your pet is itching, licking, biting, or rubbing, please arrange a check-up with us ASAP. The sooner we settle the itch, the less likely your pet is to cause self-trauma and secondary skin infections.
If any of the above symptoms sound or look familiar in your dog, or if you would like more information about atopic dermatitis, we are always a phone call away from providing you with the best help and advice!
Call 9450 2020 to learn more.
