Skin is the largest organ in the animal body, and proper care is a number one priority. Skin is essential for protection, maintaining water balance, elasticity, temperature regulation, and toxin erection. Like humans, dog skin needs special care to prevent skin infections. Several ways to treat these conditions include natural remedies and pet skin wellness products. Today, HICC PET™ goes over typical dog skin conditions and treatments every pet owner should look for.
Signs of Skin Conditions in Dogs
There are noticeable signs if your dog has a skin problem. Learn these signs and symptoms to quickly treat your dog or take it to the vet before the condition worsens. Take immediate action if you notice any of the following signs of skin infection in your pet:
- Red flaky skin
- Constant itching
- Inflamed skin
- Bumps, lesions, scabs
- Rashes
- Swollen wounds
- Bald patches
- Hot spots (an open wound that comes from continuous scratching)
What Are Some Common Dog Skin Conditions and Treatments?
Ticks
Tick bites spread bacteria causing Lyme disease and other illnesses like Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Ticks live deep in dog fur and feed on their hosts, causing irritation and excessive itching. They are small and quickly hide in long undercoats, making them hard to spot. After playing outdoors, thoroughly check your dog’s coat to avoid hitchhikers.
Common signs of a tick bite:
- swollen bumps on the skin,
- joint pain,
- muscle aches,
- scabs.
A fever can develop from long-term tick exposure. The best way to stop ticks is to remove them from your dog. Owners must remove ticks properly to avoid a worsened skin infection. All pets are at risk for tick bites. Speak to your veterinarian about tick prevention methods.
Fleas
Fleas commonly infect dogs, cats, and other furry pets. Fleas are tiny and quickly multiply in number. Immediate treatment is crucial to avoid an infestation that may take months to exterminate. Flea bites and droppings irritate the skin making your dog itch. Try pet skin cleansing wipes to soothe any discomfort for quick itch relief. To determine if your dog is infected, look through its fur. You may notice tiny moving brown spots or dried blood from their bites. Many over-the-counter medications or natural remedies are available to drive them away. Add a few drops of essential oil to a cup of water for a natural repellent. Mix the solution in a spray bottle onto your dog’s coat for a happier pup.
