Dog Allergy Shampoo

Skin problems, also known as Dermatitis, is a broad-spectrum condition that has a myriad of underlying causes ranging from environmental causes to food allergy to hereditary causes. Definitive diagnosis is often difficult and time consuming and involves intricate investigations. Straightforward causes are usually easily diagnosed but at times requires lengthy treatments; Flea Allergy dermatitis, Demodex and scabies, yeast infection candidiasis or Malassezia are examples of these. Skin issues are usually identifiable by these symptoms; excessive oily or dry skin, flaky skin, dandruff, frequent scratching and biting, skin soreness and redness, dried scabs of skin, yellowish scabs, musky or yeasty smell. Symptoms are usually prevalent in areas such as the armpit areas, skinfolds, neck, facial areas or areas that can trap more dirt or moisture. These symptoms vary according to the different types of skin conditions your dog is having.

Yeast Infections are the most common of all skin issues and arises due to the overgrowth of yeast bacteria in the body. This happens when the dogs immune system is weak or if they are exposed to long term antibiotic or immunosuppressive medication. The symptoms are itchiness, skin irritation, redness and inflammation, yeasty ears and in areas around the ears, paws, armpit, neck or areas with skin folds. There is also a strong yeasty smell. The proper treatment is to use a suitable medicated shampoo, 2-3 times weekly, to suppress the itch and relieve the skin irritation. In doing this, the dog will be more comfortable and is able to go about its normal daily activities. Contrary to belief that excessive shower can cause problems in dogs, a dog with yeast skin problems requires frequent bath with a treatment shampoo, while a dog without any skin issue can go up to 2-4 weeks without shower. Prolonged use of antibiotics or immunosuppressants will worsen subsequent yeast infections as these not only destroy Pathogenic bacteria, they too destroy the good bacterial flora in the dogs which are required to keep their immunity strong. Therefore, you will realise that when antibiotics are given they temporarily recover and their symptoms gone, but when it reappears again usually in a couple of weeks or months, the symptoms may worsen, and subsequent antibiotic treatments will be administered, only to have the problem repeating over and again until the dog has a severely weak immune system (vicious cycle). The bacteria may also become resistant to the antibiotic treatment and may require higher or stronger doses to treat each time.

Causes of Yeast Infection
Both human beings and dogs have normal healthy levels of yeast that occur naturally on the body. When the immune system is imbalanced, (either due to an underactive immune system or an overactive immune system) it can lead to problems with yeast. A dog can get an allergic reaction triggered by an overactive immune system. Vets may prescribe steroids to shut down the immune responses, when this happens the body cannot regulate and balance normal flora levels and this can lead to yeast infection. A dog with an underactive immune system can be susceptible to infection triggered by allergies. Conventionally, vets will prescribe antibiotics to treat infections and possible secondary infections, however antibiotics can destroy healthy levels of good bacteria, in the process of eradicating the bad ones that are causing the infection. Both steroids and antibiotics can treat the symptoms but it does not address the underlying cause. Prolonged use of these drugs can lead to a severely compromised immune system.

The treatment of yeast infection is to focus your effort on suppressing and treating of the external symptoms (skin, ears) especially the itch while monitoring to ensure it does not worsen. Do not look for a quick fix! We should not oppose the use of antibiotics or immunosuppressants, however we have to use these drugs responsibly and know when to use them, only when absolutely necessary. (Monitor your pet closely and if you see a pattern of persistent scratching coupled with strong yeasty, musky smell, swelling in extremities like the paws or ears, yeast coming from the ears and eyes or if you notice your dog is less active and looks sickly, they may require veterinary attention, in some cases, antibiotics will be prescribed to stop the growth of yeast bacteria and to eliminate the infection). Avoid any food that will contribute to increased sugar levels e.g. Bread, rice, potatoes. etc. Avoid oatmeal or oatmeal shampoos. Introduce good bacterial flora by giving probiotics, coconut oil (is known to eliminate yeast bacteria with the combination of lauric acid and caprylic acid) and other good vitamins. In doing this the good bacteria will buildup and thus allow the dogs to heal thru their natural body defences. It is important to monitor your pet closely if he is suffering from yeast related conditions. Severe yeast conditions also known as systemic yeast infection is when the entire body system is engulfed with yeast bacteria, and this is a life-threatening situation. Do read up on this condition on the web or check with a veterinarian and recognise the symptoms.