Question: My dog?s dermatitis won’t quit. My vet checked her, and she has it. Antibiotics don’t affect it. I?m currently washing with a limited ingredient shampoo and treating with Desitin. I read that dermatitis should be treated with an antifungal shampoo, even though tests may come back negative, which hers did. Will an antifungal shampoo kill dermititis? Desitin is working, it stops the itching/chewing with the baths and slowly is killing it. – Tasha
Answer: Dermatitis is an inflammation in the skin that can be caused by many different things. The most common reason for recurring dermatitis is allergies. Pets can be allergic to many different things such as parasites, inhaled pollens, foods, chemicals, and medications.
When dogs or cats are constantly scratching, I check to make sure that they don?t have any fleas, ticks, or mites. Parasites can cause very severe allergic reactions when they bite the pet. Flea bite allergy is extremely common. Allergic pets may itch for up to seven days after a flea bite.
Inhaled allergens are also very common. Your pet can be allergic to microscopic pollens that are inhaled. Common inhaled allergies are ragweed, pine, salt grass, vernal grass, house dust, and molds. The inhaled allergen causes a reaction that releases histamine into the skin and causes the pet to itch. The pet is then more likely to get secondary yeast and bacterial infections. Wiping your pet?s paws and coat with a washcloth soaked in water and vinegar after a walk outside can help to remove some pollen that may have stuck to the hair coat.
Foods can also cause allergies. Allergies to certain food items can cause multiple symptoms in pets. Pets can be allergic to any ingredient including chicken, beef, rice, egg, carrot, milk, etc.
Your veterinarian can do testing to find out what?s causing the allergies. Once you know what allergies are causing the problem, you can make changes to make your pet more comfortable.
Make sure to keep your pet free of fleas, ticks, and mites. Bathe your pet in a hypoallergenic shampoo. Feed a limited antigen diet high in essential fatty acids and antioxidants for sensitive skin and use an air conditioner filter or air purifier that can help reduce pollens and molds from the air.
Allergic skin disease is seldom cured; it is a matter of lifelong control. Your pet may periodically need antihistamines, steroids, cyclosporin, immunotherapy, or other products to help relieve the itch. It is important to work closely with your veterinarian to find the right treatment for your pet.

Dr. Baker
Dr. Susan Baker
Baker Veterinary Clinic
1801 S. Congress Ave.
West Palm Beach, FL 33406
Read more articles by Dr. Baker |
Ask her a question Source: http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/pawshere/2011/12/01/what-causes-dogs-skin-problems-allergies/
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