What are 5 Common Diseases that Affect Dogs

What is Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects dogs. It attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and lethargy. CPV is most common in puppies between 6 weeks and 6 months old, but unvaccinated adult dogs are also at risk. There are three identified antigenic variants of the virus - CPV-2a, CPV-2b, and CPV-2c. Without treatment, CPV can lead to potentially fatal complications due to rapid dehydration and damage to the intestinal lining. Vaccination is key for prevention.

Symptoms of Canine Parvovirus

The most common symptoms of CPV include:

Vomiting - Usually the first sign. Vomiting may be mild at first but quickly becomes severe. Vomit may be yellow and foamy with traces of blood.

Bloody diarrhea - Profuse, watery, foul-smelling diarrhea often containing blood and mucus.

Lethargy - Dogs with CPV tend to become extremely tired and weak as the disease progresses.

Dehydration - Vomiting and diarrhea result in fluid loss, causing dehydration. Dehydration is evidenced by loss of skin elasticity, dry gums, sunken eyes.

Fever - Dogs with CPV often run a high fever around 104-106°F (40-41°C).

Lack of appetite - Affected dogs completely lose interest in food due to nausea.

Weight loss - Severe vomiting and diarrhea leads to rapid weight loss.

Depression - Dogs with CPV may appear depressed and withdrawn due to feeling unwell.

Causes and Risk Factors of Canine Parvovirus

CPV is caused by infection with the canine parvovirus, a DNA virus in the family Parvoviridae.
It is passed from dog to dog via direct contact with infected feces, vomit, or contaminated environments. The virus can survive in the environment for months.
Unvaccinated puppies and dogs are at highest risk. Puppies still acquiring maternal antibodies are especially vulnerable once those antibodies wear off around 6-12 weeks of age.
Dogs with weakened immune systems, such as very young puppies, elderly dogs, or dogs with other medical conditions have increased susceptibility.
Dogs in high traffic areas like shelters, daycares, and boarding kennels are at increased risk of exposure.
Improper sanitation also raises the risk of spreading CPV from environments contaminated by infected feces.
Stress can weaken the immune system and make dogs more prone to contracting CPV.

Prevention of Canine Parvovirus

Vaccination - Puppies should receive a series of parvo vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age, with boosters every 2-4 weeks until 16-20 weeks of age. Adult dogs need boosters 1 year after the puppy series and every 1-3 years thereafter.

Proper sanitation - Routinely disinfect kennel floors, bowls, toys, crates, and other environments using bleach or parvo-specific disinfectants.

Avoid exposure - Be cautious taking unvaccinated puppies to dog parks, daycares, boarding kennels or anywhere strange dogs frequent until the puppy series is complete.

Reduce stress - Since stress can lower immunity, minimizing stressful events like boarding or travel around the time of vaccination may help the vaccine be more effective.

Proper nutrition - Feed a high-quality diet to support immune system health.

Home Remedies for Canine Parvovirus

There are no effective home remedies that treat CPV, but supportive care can be given at home under a veterinarian's guidance. This may include:

Oral rehydration therapy - Giving an electrolyte solution like Pedialyte by syringe or bottle helps replenish fluids and electrolytes lost through vomiting and diarrhea.

Bland diet - Feeding small amounts of boiled chicken and rice once vomiting subsides can provide gentle nutrition.

Probiotics - Giving probiotic supplements may help restore good intestinal bacteria damaged by the virus.

Anti-nausea medication - Over-the-counter anti-nausea medication like Cerenia may alleviate vomiting so the dog can keep down fluids.

Anti-diarrheal medication - Medications that slow down intestinal motility like Imodium may help control watery diarrhea after consulting your vet.

Vitamins - Water-soluble vitamins like vitamin B-complex and vitamin C support the immune system. Consult your vet before supplementing.

Treatment of Canine Parvovirus

Most dogs with CPV require intensive veterinary treatment:

Hospitalization for 3-7 days or longer is usually necessary.
Intravenous (IV) fluid therapy corrects dehydration and maintains blood pressure.
Injectable anti-nausea and antiemetic drugs treat vomiting.
Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent secondary infections.
Plasma or whole blood transfusions provide antibodies to help fight the virus.
A balanced electrolyte solution is fed once the dog can keep down food.
Strict isolation protocols are followed to avoid spread of infection.
After recovery, follow-up veterinary visits assess response to treatment and make sure the virus has been eradicated.

While most dogs respond well to treatment, CPV can sometimes lead to septic shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), intestinal bleeding, and other potentially fatal complications. With aggressive supportive care, the mortality rate is around 10-20%.

Frequently Asked Questions about Canine Parvovirus

Here are answers to some common questions about CPV:

How is parvo transmitted?

CPV is spread through direct contact with infected feces or vomit or through contact with contaminated environments, objects, or people that have been exposed to the virus.

How long does parvo last?

Active CPV infection typically lasts about 1-2 weeks. However, effects like weakened immune system and weight loss may persist longer during recovery. Surviving dogs develop lasting immunity.

What disinfectants kill parvo?

Effective disinfectants for parvo include sodium hypochlorite bleach at a 1:30 dilution, accelerated hydrogen peroxide products, potassium peroxymonosulfate, and quaternary ammonium compounds.

Can adults get parvo?

While more common in puppies, adult dogs that are unvaccinated or have weak immunity can contract parvo. The illness tends to be milder in older dogs but it's still crucial to vaccinate adult dogs.

Is parvo always fatal?

With intensive veterinary treatment most dogs can recover from parvo, though the mortality rate is estimated between 10-20%. However, without proper treatment parvo has a very high fatality rate.

How long does parvo last on surfaces?

The parvovirus can survive on surfaces, soil, grass, feces, etc for many months unless properly disinfected. It is very resistant to environment and temperature changes.

Can a vaccinated dog get parvo?

In rare cases, it is possible for a vaccinated dog to contract parvo. This may occur if the vaccine was not properly stored/administered or if the dog's immune response to the vaccine was low. But appropriate vaccination greatly reduces the risk.

Conclusion on Canine Parvovirus

Canine parvovirus is a highly infectious and potentially fatal viral disease that causes severe gastrointestinal illness in dogs. Through vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dehydration and systemic effects, CPV takes a major toll on a dog's health and can be life-threatening without proper treatment. Vaccination starting in early puppyhood is the best prevention. Dog owners should be vigilant for any signs of CPV and seek prompt veterinary care for suspected cases. With aggressive supportive therapy most dogs can fully recover. Through awareness and prevention, owners can protect their beloved pets from this devastating disease.

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Kennel Cough in Dogs

What are Kennel Cough in Dogs

Kennel cough, also known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC) or infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious upper respiratory infection in dogs. It is most commonly caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica and can involve viral components like canine parainfluenza virus and canine adenovirus. Kennel cough gets its name because outbreaks are common in boarding kennels, shelters, doggie daycares, and other areas where dogs congregate. The trademark symptom is a loud, honking cough.

Symptoms of Kennel Cough

Dry, hacking cough - A loud, forceful cough that often sounds like a honking goose. Coughing episodes may occur in rapid fits and may be stimulated by excitement, pressure on the trachea, or exercise. Cough often worsens at night.

Runny nose - Watery, mucus-like nasal discharge is common. The mucus may be clear or slightly opaque.

Sneezing & Watery eyes - Mild ocular discharge may be present.

Loss of appetite - Some dogs go off their feed due to coughing, congestion, and feeling unwell.

Lethargy - Dogs may appear tired and low energy because of poor sleep from incessant night coughing.

Fever - Mild fever below 103°F (39.4°C) may be present in some cases.

Breathing difficulty - Rarely, severe mucus congestion or pneumonia may cause labored breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.

Causes and Risk Factors of Kennel Cough in Dog

Bordetella bronchiseptica - The main bacteria responsible. It colonizes the lining of the trachea and upper airways.

Secondary viral infections - Parainfluenza virus, adenovirus-2, and others often contribute. These further damage the respiratory tract.

Close contact - Crowded conditions and poor air circulation facilitate spread of infectious agents through the air and via respiratory droplets between dogs.

Stress or poor ventilation - Weakens immunity and makes dogs more prone to developing infection after exposure.

Young age - Dogs under 1 year old are more susceptible due to naive immune systems.

Foreign objects - Irritants like dust, smoke, and grass seeds entering airways can make infection more likely by damaging the tracheal lining.

Prevention of Kennel Cough in Dog

Bordetella vaccination - While not foolproof, the Bordetella vaccine provides good protection and is recommended 1-2 weeks before boarding. Even then, additional precautions are prudent.

Avoid dog crowds - Skip the dog park and kennel during outbreaks. Limit exposure at other high dog traffic locales.

Ventilation - Ensure good air flow through the home, car, and other enclosed spaces shared with dogs. Open windows, use fans, and avoid recirculated air.

Rest - Let your dog's immune system recover between bouts of heavy socialization or travel.

Sanitation - Disinfect food bowls, toys, crates, and other items possibly used by infected dogs.

Immune support - Discuss supplements like vitamin C, probiotics, and antioxidants with your vet.

Home Remedies for Kennel Cough in Dog

Honey - Honey helps coat and soothe irritated throat tissues, and has antimicrobial effects. Add 1 tsp to warm water or give as a treat.

Steam - Running a hot shower and enclosing the dog in the steamy bathroom can help loosen congestion. Keep a close eye to ensure safety.

Humidifier - Use a cool mist humidifier near your dog's sleeping area to keep airways moist.

Chicken soup - The warm broth can reduce coughing fits and provide gentle nutrition.

Herbal cough syrups - Ask your vet about trying herbal cough suppressants with honey, licorice root, marshmallow root or thyme.

Cough control collars - Special collars apply gentle pressure to the trachea to control coughing spasms.

Rest and isolation - Strict rest and isolation from other dogs prevents overexertion and reduces reinfection risk.

Treatment of Kennel Cough in Dog

Antibiotics - Antibiotics like Doxycycline attack secondary bacterial invaders like Bordetella bronchiseptica to resolve infection. Course is usually 7-10 days.

Cough suppressants - Drugs like hydrocodone and butorphanol tartrate reduce coughing spasms. Use should be short term under veterinary guidance.

Bronchodilators - Medications like Theophylline open airways and make breathing easier when congestion is severe.

IV or nebulized fluids - For dogs with high fever, dehydration, or pneumonia, intravenous fluids or nebulization may provide respiratory relief and hydration.

Rest and isolation - As in home care, rest and isolation helps recovery and prevents contagion.

Follow up exams - Repeat veterinary exams ensure the dog is recovering properly from the infection and assess for any secondary complications.

Most uncomplicated cases resolve within 10-20 days with symptomatic treatment. Puppies, elderly dogs, and immunocompromised dogs have higher risk of pneumonia and other secondary infections, which require more intensive treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kennel Cough

Here are answers to some common kennel cough questions:

Is kennel cough contagious to humans?

No, kennel cough cannot be directly transmitted to humans. However, human bordetella bronchiseptica infection is possible but extremely rare.

Should I take my dog to daycare with kennel cough?

No. Dogs with active kennel cough should be isolated to prevent spread to other dogs. Most kennels and daycares will not allow entry of dogs showing signs of kennel cough.

How long does kennel cough last?

In most healthy adult dogs, kennel cough resolves in 1-2 weeks with treatment. However the cough may persist for up to 4 weeks post-infection, even after the dog is no longer contagious.

Can kennel cough go away without treatment?

In mild cases, kennel cough can resolve on its own within a few weeks. However, antibiotics speed recovery and prevent complications, so veterinary treatment is strongly recommended.

Is kennel cough life threatening?

Simple kennel cough is not life threatening for most healthy dogs. However, puppies, elderly dogs, or immunocompromised dogs are at risk of developing pneumonia or other secondary infections that have the potential to be life threatening if not treated promptly.

Should I vaccinate for kennel cough every year?

Annual Bordetella vaccination is recommended for dogs regularly exposed to crowded, high-risk environments like kennels, daycares, parks, shows, etc. For lower risk dogs, vaccination every 2-3 years may be sufficient. Discuss your dog's lifestyle with your veterinarian.

At what age can puppies be vaccinated for kennel cough?

Most puppies can be safely vaccinated for kennel cough as early as 3-4 weeks of age, and vaccination is recommended before entering high dog traffic areas. Breeders may give the first vaccine even earlier to protect vulnerable puppies.

Conclusion on Kennel Cough

Kennel cough is an extremely contagious respiratory infection readily spread between dogs in close quarters. The trademark loud, honking cough can persist despite treatment. While annoying, kennel cough is typically self-limiting in health adult dogs. However, veterinary care is crucial, especially for higher risk puppies and immunocompromised dogs, to prevent development of pneumonia or other secondary infections. Through vaccination, avoiding high-risk environments during outbreaks, and prompt treatment, dog owners can protect their companions from the hassles of kennel cough.

Heartworm in Dog

What is Heartworm in Dog

Heartworm disease is a serious parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes. It is caused by the parasitic worm Dirofilaria immitis, which can grow over a foot long and infest the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels when transmitted to dogs and other mammals. Without prompt treatment, heartworm disease can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, other organ damage, and even death. However, monthly preventatives and careful monitoring can prevent development of infections.

Symptoms of Heartworm in Dogs

Coughing - One of the earliest signs. The cough may be mild and dismissible at first. It may be stimulated by exercise, excitement, or Chest pressure. Cough becomes more frequent and forceful as the disease advances.

Fatigue, reduced stamina - Exercise intolerance develops and worsens over time. Dogs tire more easily during walks, play, and other activities. Even mild exertion may trigger coughing or shortness of breath.

Shortness of breath - Labored, heavy breathing results from lung congestion and damage from migrating worms.

Weight loss, appetite loss - Dogs often lose physical condition over time due to declining stamina and heart failure decreasing blood flow to the digestive tract.

Swollen belly - Enlargement of the abdomen may occur due to fluid accumulation from heart failure and liver dysfunction.

Pale gums, lethargy - As heartworm disease progresses and circulatory impairment occurs, dogs may become very inactive and their gums may lose color from poor perfusion and oxygenation.

Collapse - In advanced disease, dogs may suffer fainting or sudden collapse due to critically low blood oxygen levels. This constitutes a medical emergency.

Heart murmur - A heart murmur may be heard upon veterinary exam due to turbulence created by worms obstructing proper blood flow.

Causes and Risk Factors of Heartworm in Dogs

Mosquito bites transmit infective larvae - Mosquitoes ingest worm larvae when biting infected dogs. The larvae mature over several weeks and migrate to the mosquito's salivary glands to be transmitted through subsequent bites.

Higher risk in warm climates - Mosquito populations are much denser in warmer regions, increasing transmission risk. Peak season is July and August in most areas.

Outdoor exposure - Dogs that spend more time outside have more opportunity for mosquito bites. The disease is uncommon in strictly indoor dogs.

Lack of preventative medication - Monthly heartworm preventatives dramatically reduce the risk of developing infections. Missing doses makes infection far more likely.

Age - Mid-age and older dogs tend to have higher rates of infection.

Lack of screening - Routine annual heartworm tests help detect infections early before symptoms escalate.

Prevention of Heartworm in Dogs

Monthly preventatives - Oral or topical medications like ivermectin, milbemycin oxime, moxidectin, or selamectin kill migrating larvae before they reach maturity. They are highly effective when given year-round starting early in puppyhood.

Mosquito control - Keep dogs indoors during peak mosquito hours. Use flea and tick preventatives. Treat the home and yard to control mosquito populations.

Annual testing - Annual heartworm blood antigen tests catch infections early before symptoms develop.

Prompt treatment - If infection does occur, treating in the earliest stages minimizes worm burden and complications.

Avoid transmission - Infected dogs should be kept indoors as much as possible and away from other uninfected dogs to prevent spread through mosquitoes.

Home Remedies for Heartworm in Dogs

There are no effective home remedies for treating heartworms once a dog is infected. The arsenic-based adulticide used to kill adult heartworms can only be administered under close veterinary supervision over several months. Supportive care recommended at home includes:

Cough suppressants - Soothing cough with over-the-counter cough medicine provides relief, but check with your vet first.

Anti-inflammatories - Help control lung inflammation. Again, dosing must be carefully calculated by a veterinarian.

Restrict activity - Strict rest limits cardiovascular demands on the impaired heart as heartworm disease progresses.

High-quality diet - A nutritious diet with animal protein supports the body's recovery processes. Avoid strenuous exercise that could worsen heartworm's effects.

Arnica montana - This homeopathic remedy may ease chest pain and bruising from coughing. Consult a holistic vet.

Treatment of Heartworm in Dogs

Adulticide - An arsenic-based compound called melarsomine is the primary drug for killing adult heartworms. It requires very careful dosing and monitoring in the hospital for side effects.

Prednisone - Before and during adulticide therapy, the steroid prednisone is administered to reduce inflammation and risk of adverse pulmonary reactions to dying worms.

Surgical removal - In some cases where worms are located favorably, they can be individually extracted from the heart via catheter. This speeds recovery, reducing the length of medical therapy.

Hospitalization - The initial 1-2 days of adulticide injections requires hospital stays to monitor for potentially life-threatening reactions like respiratory distress. The dog may also need to be hospitalized later if complications arise.

Cage rest - Several weeks to months of extremely restricted activity are required after treatment to enable the dog's body to heal damage caused by worms.

Follow up testing - Blood tests confirm when worm larvae and antigens have been eliminated from the dog's body. Further treatment may be needed if the infection persists.

Frequently Asked Questions about Heartworm

Here are answers to some common questions about heartworm disease:

How long can a dog live with heartworms?

Without treatment, dogs with advanced clinical signs typically survive an average of 2-3 years before succumbing to complications of heart failure. Prognosis depends on worm burden and rate of disease progression.

What are the chances a heartworm positive dog will survive treatment?

With proper veterinary care using today's treatment protocols, the survival rate is approximately 95% if the disease is caught before the late stages. The highest risk period is the initial 24-48 hours when dead worms break down in the lungs.

How much does heartworm treatment cost?

Costs average $800-$1200 for medical treatment alone. With follow up exams, diagnostics, medications, and hospitalization, total costs often exceed $1500-2000. Pet insurance can help offset these expenses.

Can heartworms go away on their own?

No, once dogs are infected, the worms will continue to mature and cause damage. Early treatment is key - the longer infection persists, the greater the worm burden, making treatment more risky.

How do dogs get heartworms without leaving the house?

Although less common, it is possible for mosquitoes to transmit heartworm larvae indoors if infected mosquitoes happen to come inside and bite the dog before dying. This underscores the importance of monthly preventatives even for indoor pets.

What mosquitoes carry heartworm?

Many mosquito species can transmit heartworm larvae, including Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex mosquitoes. Different species have varying effectiveness in transmitting heartworms.

Are heartworms contagious to humans or other pets?

No, heartworms require passage through both mosquito and mammalian hosts to complete their life cycle. They are only transmitted to humans and other animals through mosquito bites, not direct contact. Only infected mosquitoes can transmit larvae.

Conclusion on Heartworm

Heartworm disease poses a grave threat to dogs not protected with monthly preventatives - severe lung disease, heart dysfunction, and even death can result from worms infesting the heart and pulmonary vessels. Routine screening, diligent year-round prevention, and prompt treatment are keys to safeguarding dogs from this debilitating parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes. While challenging to treat once established, heartworm disease is easily preventable in the first place. Through simple measures and veterinary partnerships, dog owners can readily protect their pets from heartworm infection.

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What are Skin Allergies in Dogs

Skin Allergies in Dogs

Canine skin allergies refer to conditions where the dog's immune system overreacts to substances in the environment that are normally harmless. The chemicals that trigger allergic reactions are called allergens or antigens. These allergens may be inhaled, ingested, or contacted on the skin, resulting in an exaggerated immune response and subsequent inflammatory reaction. Pollens, molds, fleas, and certain foods are examples of common allergens in dogs.

Symptoms of Skin Allergies in Dogs

Itchy skin - Excessive scratching, licking, chewing, or rubbing at the face, paws, ears, armpits, groin area and skin folds. Reddened, irritated skin results. Hair loss and bald patches often occur from trauma.

Ear inflammation - Chronic ear infections are often tied to underlying allergies. Dogs may shake their heads. Ears appear red and swollen, with brown waxy discharge.

Skin infections - Bacterial or yeast skin infections may develop as a secondary complication of the irritation, trauma, and inflammation caused by allergies. Signs include pustules, crusts, scales and hair loss.

Paw chewing/swollen paws - Allergies often manifest in irritated, swollen paws that dogs constantly lick, inducing secondary infection. The paws may also emit a foul odor.

Watery eyes - Runny, bloodshot eyes with mucus discharge are typical of allergic conjunctivitis flare-ups.

Skin rashes - Rashes present as localized red, raised, inflamed skin lesions. Weeping sores or blisters may develop.

Digestive upset - Vomiting, soft stool, and flatulence can signify food allergies.

Causes and Risk Factors of Skin Allergies

Genetic predisposition - Certain purebreds like Golden Retrievers, Bulldogs, and Pit Bull Terriers exhibit higher rates of allergies due to their genetics.

Atopy - Allergic hypersensitivity to seasonal inhaled allergens like pollen, mold, and house dust mites. This represents about 10-15% of skin allergies in dogs.

Food allergies - Meat, dairy, and grain ingredients commonly provoke allergic reactions manifesting as skin disease.

Flea allergy - Allergic reaction to flea saliva leads to intense itching and self-trauma.

Contact allergy - Rubber, plastic, wool, and chemicals in shampoos or carpets can trigger skin inflammation upon contact in sensitive dogs.

Prevention of Skin Allergies in Dogs

Allergy testing - Intradermal or blood tests help identify specific allergic triggers to avoid or minimize exposure.

Removing allergens - Switch to hypoallergenic food, control fleas and dust mites in the home, store food in sealed containers, use air filters, bathe after outdoor excursions to rinse off pollen, etc.

Prescription baths and shampoos - Veterinary products containing ingredients like chlorhexidine provide therapeutic relief during allergy flare-ups.

Immune modulation - Newer monoclonal antibody injections like Cytopoint downregulate allergic itch pathways.

Allergen immunotherapy - Customized allergy shots gradually desensitize allergic dogs. Improvement often requires 3-12 months.

Moisturizing creams - Emollients and ceramides replenish skin lipids damaged by inflammation and trauma. This helps restore skin's natural protective barrier.

Home Remedies for Skin Allergies in Dogs

Oatmeal baths - Oatmeal has a soothing effect on the skin that provides temporary relief. Grind plain oats into a powder and pour into a tub of lukewarm water. Bathe the dog for 15 minutes then gently pat dry. Do this no more than once per week.

Aloe vera gel - Pure aloe vera gel is naturally cooling. Apply it to affected areas to diminish inflammation. Research proper dosing based on the dog's weight.

Witch hazel and chamomile rinses - Mix brewed chamomile tea with witch hazel. Dip a clean cloth in the liquid and gently wipe the irritated skin after a bath.

Apple cider vinegar - Diluted ACV helps restore skin's normal pH and control yeast overgrowth. Mix with equal parts water and apply with cotton balls. Start with small test areas first.

Coconut oil - Contains soothing fatty acids and antifungal properties. Rub lightly onto the skin 1-2 times per day. Discontinue use if the area looks more irritated.

Treatment of Skin Allergies in Dogs

Oral and injectable steroids - Powerful anti-inflammatory drugs like prednisone provide relief but often have significant long-term side effects with chronic use.

Topical steroids and creams - Help control localized skin lesions. Examples include triamcinolone and hydrocortisone aceponate. Used sparingly to avoid absorption.

Antibiotics - Treat secondary skin infections aggravating allergies. Often necessary for improving associated ear infections as well.

Antihistamines - Help control allergic reactions and itching. Sedating antihistamines like diphenhydramine usually work better for dogs due to their calming side effects.

Medicated shampoos - Shampoos with ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, pramoxine, and hydrocortisone provide therapeutic relief between vet visits.

Immune modulators - Drugs like cyclosporine and Apoquel dampen hyperactive immune responses. Often used for short-term relief until immunotherapy starts working.

Frequently Asked Questions about Skin Allergies

Here are answers to some common questions about canine skin allergies:

At what age do dogs start developing allergies?

Most dogs begin to show signs between 1-3 years of age. It takes repeated exposure to allergens over months or years for dogs to become sensitized and have allergic reactions.

Can allergies in dogs be cured permanently?

There is no permanent cure for allergies in dogs. Symptoms can be controlled through avoidance of triggers, medications, immunotherapy, and managing secondary infections - but the propensity for allergies remains lifelong.

Can skin allergies in dogs be fatal?

Severe, chronic allergic skin disease poses serious health risks if it leads to systemic secondary staph infections, widespread skin trauma and infections, anemia, reduced nutrition through hair loss or overgrooming, etc. Aggressive treatment is vital in such cases.

How can you tell if a dog has a food allergy?

Signs of food allergies include itchy skin, ear issues, foot irritation, and gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and soft stools. An elimination diet trial is used to diagnose food allergies in dogs.

Can my dog suddenly become allergic to something?

Yes, dog allergies often worsen over time. Allergies develop in response to repeated exposure. New allergies can develop at any age as the dog encounters novel things in the environment.

How often should dogs with skin allergies be bathed?

Veterinary dermatologists typically recommend bathing dogs with skin allergies no more than once or twice per week. More frequent bathing can excessively dry out and irritate the skin. Appropriate hypoallergenic shampoos are a must.

Conclusion on Skin Allergies

Skin allergies are exceedingly common in dogs and can significantly impact quality of life if not properly controlled. Itching, infections, and skin damage lead to misery and health risks. Allergy testing is key for uncovering triggers, and immunotherapy can provide lasting relief for environmental allergies if begun early enough. Through vigilant monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and veterinarypartnerships, dog owners can effectively manage chronic allergy issues in their canine companions.

Ear Infections in Dogs

What are Ear Infections in Dogs

Canine ear infections refer to inflammation and infection of the external ear canal, medically termed otitis externa. The scientific name for the outer ear canal is the vertical ear canal. Ear infections in dogs are typically triggered by underlying allergies and result in painful ear canal swelling, head shaking due to irritation, and foul-smelling discharge. Left untreated, ear infections can lead to more serious middle and inner ear infections. Maintenance and cleaning are important for prevention.

Symptoms of Ear Infections in Dogs

Head shaking - Shaking the head and scratching at the ears are common early signs. The dog is attempting to relieve irritated ear canal tissue.

Redness and swelling - The inner surfaces of the ear flap and vertical ear canal appear inflamed, reddened, and swollen.

Pain and tenderness - Dogs whimper or cry when the head or ears are touched. The ears are sensitive.

Foul odor - A strong, yeasty odor emanates from the infected ears due to overgrowth of yeast and bacteria.

Hearing loss - Chronic infections eat away ear canal tissue and rupture the ear drum, leading to hearing impairment and deafness.

Fluid discharge - Liquid wax, pus, blood, and skin debris drains from the vertical ear canals. This is often brown, yellow, or black.

Hair loss around the ears - Self-trauma and inflammation can cause bald patches around the pinnae.

Head tilt - If inner structures are affected, imbalance and head tilting can occur.

Causes and Risk Factors of Ear Infections in Dogs

Allergies - Dogs with environmental or food allergies often get secondary ear infections. Allergy-triggered itching and inflammation allow infectious agents to invade ear tissue.

Moisture - Ears with poor air flow and ventilation provide the perfect dark, moist environment for yeast and bacteria to thrive. Pendulous ear breeds and dogs with hairy ear canals are at increased risk.

Foreign bodies - Grass seeds, dirt, sand, and other debris trapped in ears can irritate tissue and introduce infection.

Autoimmune disease - Conditions like hypothyroidism can make dogs prone to recurrent infections.

Tumors - Ear canal tumors disrupt tissue integrity and gland secretions, increasing infection risk.

Trauma - Direct trauma to ears through scratches, burns, or chemicals predisposes to infection.

Prevention of Ear Infections in Dogs

Control underlying allergies - Keeping allergies in check helps prevent secondary ear infections. This may involve allergy testing and immunotherapy, hypoallergenic food trials, and avoiding contact allergens.

Dry ears after bathing - Ensure ears are thoroughly dried out after swimming or baths. Allow air flow by lightly pulling the ears up and out.

Diet - Nutrition rich in Omega fatty acids promotes skin health.

Routine ear cleaning - Regularly cleaning excess debris helps prevent buildup of wax that traps moisture and microbes. Pendulous ears may need daily cleaning.

Ear powder - Applying drying agents after cleanings keeps ears dry.

Home Remedies for Ear Infections in Dogs

Vinegar and water rinse - Mix equal parts white vinegar and clean water. Soak a cotton ball and use it to gently wipe out visible debris. Do not scratch or dig into the ear canal.

Witch hazel - Contains soothing, antimicrobial, and anti-itch properties. Use cotton balls soaked in diluted witch hazel to wipe the outer ear after cleaning.

Tea tree oil - Dilute pure tea tree oil with carrier oil like fractionated coconut oil, then dab onto outer ear with cotton swabs to help control yeast and bacteria. Do not insert deep into ear canal.

Apple cider vinegar - The acidic pH inhibits microbial growth. Mix with clean water and flush gently into infected ears using a bulb syringe or sterile dropper.

Saline solution - Rinsing with sterile saline mimics the ear's natural state and helps flush out infection. Purchase sterile saline or make your own with distilled water and sea salt.

Topical antibiotics - If prescribed by your vet, apply antibiotic ointments sparingly to the outer ear, taking care not to insert deep into the vertical ear canal.

Elizabethan collar - Prevent self-trauma by having the dog wear an e-collar until infection clears.

Treatment of Ear Infections in Dogs

Deep ear flush - The veterinarian will thoroughly flush the ear under sedation to remove debris, exudate, and saturate inflamed tissues with medication.

Medicated ointments - Antibacterial and antifungal ointments containing agents like miconazole, gentamicin, and hydrocortisone are applied to directly attack infection and reduce swelling.

Oral antibiotics and antifungals - For advanced, chronic, or recurrent infections oral medications may be prescribed, including itraconazole for yeast infections.

Medicated ear cleaners - Veterinary ear cleansers with drying, antibacterial, and antifungal properties are dispensed for home use. TrisEDTA and ketoconazole are common ingredients. Follow all label instructions carefully.

Surgery - For severe chronic cases where the vertical ear canal requires removal, a surgical procedure called lateral ear resection may be performed. This becomes the last resort when medical therapy fails.

Sedation - Pets with painful infections often require sedation for proper ear examinations and thorough cleanings.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ear Infections

Here are some commonly asked questions about ear infections in dogs:

How long do ear infections last in dogs?

With appropriateveterinary treatment, most acute ear infections resolve within 7-30 days. Chronic or recurrent infections often take 4-8 weeks to fully clear.

When should you take a dog to the vet for an ear infection?

Dogs with symptoms of head shaking, pain, and inflammation should see the vet right away before infection worsens. You should not allow an ear infection to persist more than 2-3 days without veterinary attention.

Can ear infections in dogs cause permanent damage?

Yes, chronic ear infections can destroy the ear canal and rupture the eardrum, leading to deafness and balance issues. Aggressive treatment is crucial to minimize lasting damage.

Can I use human ear infection medicine on my dog?

No, do not use any human ear medication in dog ears without explicit veterinary approval. Many human products contain potentially toxic ingredients for dogs, like benzocaine. Only use veterinary prescribed canine ear products.

How often should you clean dog's ears?

For most dogs, weekly ear cleaning is sufficient for maintenance. Dogs prone to infections, with pendulous ears, or excess hair in ear canals benefit from cleaning 2-3 times per week. Always use a proper canine ear cleanser.

Is neosporin good for dog ear infections?

No, neosporin is not recommended for dog ears as it may cause additional irritation. Prescription antibiotic and antifungal ointments specifically formulated for dog ears are required for treating infections. Only apply ointments prescribed by your vet.

Conclusion on Ear Infections

Ear infections are a very common issue plaguing dogs. The combined impact of underlying allergies, trapped moisture, debris, and opportunistic microbes makes ear canals prone to infection and inflammation. Left unchecked, serious damage can occur. Careful regular cleaning and drying, prompt veterinary attention at the first signs of infection, and diligent treatment are essential to getting ear issues under control promptly. Through prevention and maintenance, dogs can avoid much discomfort and owners can minimize frustrating repeat infections.