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SKIN AND COAT CARE

SUMMER IS COMING AND WHILE MOST STATES ENJOY EXTENDED DAYLIGHT HOURS WHICH IS GREAT FOR GETTING US OUT AND ABOUT WITH OUR DOGS, IT IS ALSO THE SEASON WHERE YOUR DOG IS MORE LIKELY TO DEVELOP SKIN IRRITATIONS. THIS CAN BE BOTHERSOME AND VERY DISTRESSING TO YOUR PET.. »

Skin irritation can develop very quickly, going from a small itch to a serious hot spot with 24 hours. There are many simple but not so obvious causes of itches (other than the obvious flea bite). Long haired dogs can develop itches and hot spots when they try to release mattered fur, dogs playing in heavily chlorinated water like a swimming pool, rolling in freshly cut grass or grass clippings, allergies to food, especially if they eat scraps of human food, even environmental causes like allergies to garden products or household cleaners. (Contact Allergies) If you pet develops a hot spot it is necessary to see a vet to avoid further damage or serious infection, confirm it is a hot spot not another skin problem, a hot spot is not something that will simply heal without proper treatment. Allergies, while antihistamines may do the trick for most dogs the more severe cases may need a review of their diet and surrounds, an elimination process is usually the only way to eradicate a serious allergy. Ringworm is another common cause of itching and bald spots. Ringworm is caused by fungus (not actually a worm) and appears as spots or sores most noticeable on the head, paws and forearms but can be anywhere on the pet. Ringworm can be contagious so if one of your pets is infected its best to check all your pets even if they do not have signs of infection. The best way to avoid ringworm is to have a healthy pet, malnourished pets are more susceptible to Ringworm. Of course, there are plenty of other causes for skin irritation, there is plenty of information online which can show symptoms and potential causes, many skin problems can look similar so a vet visit may be required to make the exact diagnosis. A diet that includes Omega oil supplements Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty most often found in fish oils can help maintain good skin health. These are essential fatty acids, meaning the body does not produce it, it can only be gained through diet.

COAT

A dog’s coat is a fantastic indicator into your dog’s health. A coat that is dull, thinning, or just deteriorating are the first signs your dog may not be getting the nutrition required to maintain a good coat, but it could also be the first sign your dog is suffering from an illness. A good shampoo and blow wave is not the secret to keeping your pet’s fur in good condition, (although it can help) Nutrition is the key to keeping your dog’s coat in good condition. If your dog’s coat has lost its lustre or thinning, or worse, this can be the first signs your dog may not be getting the nutrition required to maintain a good coat, or it could be, but it could also be the first sign your dog is suffering from an illness. It is a good idea to include some supplements into the diet or look for products that include ingredients that provide the nutrients required to maintain a healthy coat. A dog’s hair is mostly of Protein so a balanced diet that includes protein and fatty acids is a great first start. Dogs with long coats also need regular washing and brushing, it is easy for something foreign to get caught and be hidden in the fur, once lodged it is hard for pets to remove and an irritation through rubbing or scratching can start. Specialists recommend brushing long haired dogs every two to three days, a pin brush is ideal as you need to get deep enough to remove errant hairs, a bristle brush for medium hair dogs. Remember to check the fur for burs or foreign matter and remove knots. Brushing stimulates the production of natural oils found in the dog’s skin and hair follicles, these oils are essential to produce and protect your dog’s coat.