Dogs normally scratch, chew, and lick their fur every day to groom themselves. It is not normal when they scratch their skin open, go bald, or form crust on their skin. When dogs do that, it is time for a trip to an animal hospital. At Clinton Hill Animal Clinic, our veterinarian in Brooklyn lists some of the common causes of dog skin problems.
Fleas and Ticks
Not only are these common parasites a reason to scratch, but many dogs are allergic to the saliva in their bites. Fleas and ticks will feed on the blood of pets and people. Fortunately, you can prevent fleas and ticks from bothering your pets with monthly preventative medication from your local animal hospital.
Mange
Mange is caused by another kind of parasite, microscopic mites burrowing into your dog’s skin. The two types of mange are sarcoptic and demodectic. Sarcoptic mange spreads easily to other pets and people. Both types of mange cause dramatic hair loss, sores from your dog constantly scratching, constant ear infections, crusting, darkening, and thickening the skin. Mange can be treated successfully with medication, shampoos, dips, antibiotics if the skin is open, and cleaning the dog’s sleeping area.
Allergies
When dogs have allergies, they often experience itchy skin. They may scratch all over or in just a few concentrated areas. The constant scratching or licking causes sores that are hard to heal, called hot spots. Dogs are often allergic to certain foods, ingredients in food, saliva from parasites, ingredients in laundry detergent, molds, pollen, perfumes, and tobacco smoke. Allergies can be treated with medication, creams, and trying to remove the allergen from the dog’s environment.
Infections
A dog’s skin can become infected with bacteria, fungus, or yeast. Bacterial infections often come after a dog has a wound that gets dirty. These types of infections can cause itchiness, crusting, sores, and bumps. The fungal infection ringworm is contagious. All of these infections should be treated as soon as possible by a veterinarian.
Contact Our Veterinarian in Brooklyn, NY
Is your dog itching or experiencing other skin problems? If you live in the Brooklyn area, contact Clinton Hill Animal Clinic at (718) 623-3999 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Dendtler.