You are viewing entries tagged 'skin problems'.
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Recent genetic research has found that a mutation in the MDR1 gene, present in many herding and sight hound breeds or mixes, is related to adverse reactions when that dog is exposed to certain flea/tick treatments (preparations with Ivermectin), pain medications (acepromazine), and various other drugs. If your dog carries this genetic variant, they could be at serious risk when it comes time to protect against pests or treat illnesses. Testing is available to determine if your dog is safe to use these common pharmaceuticals.
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Does Rover have a crusty, dry, or scaly nose? Some dogs, like some people, have naturally dry skin. This can be genetically influenced, or due to environment, diet, medication, or allergies. A simple and affordable fix is applying propylene glycol to the nose each day. You should be able to purchase propylene glycol from your favorite health store or pharmacy for next to nothing, literally! And it is unscented so won’t bother your dog’s sensitive sense of smell. |
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Many dogs are prescribed cortisone pills (prednisone) for skin problems but vets often fail to note that it is one of the drugs linked to aggression, especially in dogs with some tendency towards being aggressive. If you do see any change in your dog’s personality on cortisone contact the vet immediately to discuss other options. Be aware, however, that other problems can occur if you stop the drug suddenly. The vet will direct you about how to weean the dog off this effective but potent medication. |
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The only oil that really benefits a dog’s skin (or your own, for that matter) is oil with omega-3 fatty acids, from fish body or liver oil. Any other kind of oil, including olive, just goes through the digestive tract. |
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Just as skiers can get terrible skin burns from the winter sun, so can dogs be hurt by sunlight reflecting off the snow. Light-colored dogs can show telltale signs of solar dermatitis with reddened skin, which means you need to keep him or her out of the sun and/or use children’s high protection factor sunblock on the vulnerable areas. |
