Skin disorders are probably the most crucial and common disorders that owners have to deal with. Skin disorders are indicated by itching, skin rashes, dry skin, and/or hair loss. They can be caused by parasites, allergies, bacterial and fungal infections. Skin disorders can be long-lasting problems requiring persistent treatments by pet owners.
Parasites
Parasites are a source of skin problems and irritation. Due to the scratching and rubbing to relieve the itch, many secondary problems may arise. Fleas and ticks are the easiest parasites to see and if not eradicated, at least control. Mites on the other hand are microscopic parasites that a veterinarian will need a skin scraping to diagnosis. The two most common mites found are demodex and sarcoptic mange.
Mange is an irritation of the skin, primarily resulting in hair loss, itching, and inflammation. The mites embed themselves in the hair follicles or skin, depending on the type. Both types of mange can be treated with parasiticidal shampoo, topical or oral medication, or injections.
Demodectic/Demodex Mange
Demodectic mange is caused by an overpopulation of Demodex canis, a mite that occurs naturally in the hair follicles. Minor cases of demodectic mange usually do not cause much itching but might cause pustules on the skin, redness, scaling, hair loss, or any combination of these. It most commonly appears first on the face, around the eyes, or at the corners of the mouth, and on the forelimbs. In the more severe form, hair loss can occur in patches all over the body and might be accompanied by crusting, pain, enlarged lymph nodes, and skin infections. This variety of mange is not generally contagious.
Sarcoptic Mange
Also known as scabies, sarcoptic mange is a highly contagious infestation of a burrowing mite. The canine sarcoptic mite can also infest humans and cats, although usually not severely, as its natural host is dogs. These mites dig into and through the skin, causing intense itching and crusting that can quickly become infected. Hair loss and crusting frequently appears first on elbows and ears. Skin damage can occur from intense scratching and biting. Affected pets need to be isolated from other pets and their bedding, and places they have occupied must be thoroughly cleaned.
Diagnosis of Mange
Veterinarians usually attempt diagnosis with a skin scraping, which is then examined under a microscope for mites.
Allergies
Allergies are a very common cause of skin problems. Like a human, your pet can be allergic to almost anything. Pet allergies are also known as several names, the most common are atopy, allergic skin disease, or allergic inhalant dermatitis. Other common causes of allergies in dogs are pollen, dust, mold, grass, food, shampoos to even carpet cleaners and powder deodorizers. Skin allergy symptoms include rashes, very itchy skin, scratching constantly, rubbing the face often and/or frequently chewing on their paws, and/or frequent ear bacterial and yeast infections may occur.
Common Allergies Include:
Flea allergies are seen on a regular basis by veterinarians, this is caused by an allergic reaction to the slavia produced by the flea.
Food Allergies: According to veterinary allergists, animal protein can be an allergen (cause of allergies). Some of our pets are allergic to beef, some to chicken, turkey, and most to horse meat. Some are also allergic to the preservatives that are added into foods.
Bacterial Infections are often a secondary infection to another conditions. A pet that has scratched or rubbed at an area and left opened skin without proper cleansing or antibiotic treatment, will often have a bacterial infection set in. The infected area or wound becomes red, swollen, warm to the touch and very painful. This infection can worsen and cause a discharge of pus that will require a veterinarian to treat.
Hot spots seem to appear overnight and without warning. They worsen quickly as they lick and chew at the skin to find relief from the pain caused by the moist, swollen, and foul smelling area. Hot Spots can cause incredible amounts of surface damage within 12-48 hours. The initial irritant could be anything that itches from an insect bite, ear infection, matted coat, or anal gland irritation, and most commonly a local reaction to fleas and ticks. Treatment includes thorough cleaning, topical and systemic antibiotics, and anti- inflammatory agents.
Pyodermas include a wide range of infections which result in the formation of pus. Pyodermas vary in severity. All areas of a dog’s body may be involved, but most cases are confined to the trunk. The chin is one area commonly affected. Called chin acne, this condition is actually a deep bacterial infection. Obese dogs and dogs of the pug-nosed breeds are frequently affected by pyoderma in the skin folds on their face, lips and vulva. Treatment is similar to that for hot spots, but typically is longer term. Shampoos and rinses are also helpful.
Fungal Infections
Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes inflammation, scaly patches and hair loss. Ringworm is seen most commonly in young dogs and cats. Hair loss, usually in circular patches, may appear. If infected, the center of the patches may have a dry, crusty appearance. The head and legs are most commonly affected by ringworm, although the disease may spread over other parts of the body if not treated. Treatment may involve shampoo and creams available from your veterinarian. In severe cases, oral drugs may be prescribed. Ringworm can be passed to other animals and to humans. Infected pets should be kept away from children and other dogs and cats until the infection is cured, which can be as long as 2-3 months or more after the treatment begins. Be careful to wash your hands thoroughly after handling an infected animal. Other household pets should also be examined for ringworm.