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Dog eczema

Dog Eczema

Eczema is a skin disorder in dogs which causes intense irritation and itchiness.



The most common type of dog eczema is atpoic dermatitis. Canine eczema is contagious and causes vigorous scratching, which can even result in hair loss and other skin infections.



Eczema cause tremendous discomfort for an animal. Skin irritation tends to recur and become persistent.



It becomes difficult to treat, if the skin disorder is ignored.

Dog Eczema Causes


  • Weakened immune system.
  • Irritants such as chemicals, detergents, fumes, paints, acidic foods, alcohol-containing skin care products, and bleach.
  • Infestation of fleas.
  • Allergens such as plant pollens.
  • Sensitivity to certain foods (particularly dairy) as well as chemical food additives, preservatives and colorings.
  • Stress or other psychological issues.
  • Boredom and loneliness.
  • Extreme changes of the temperature.
  • Fungal infections.
  • Over-vaccination.

Dog Eczema Symptoms


  • Red itchy scalp
  • Small bumps that becomes moist and oozing
  • Dry and flaky skin
  • Lesions on areas of skin that becomes sparsely haired (back of the paws, abdomen, and lips)
  • Inflamed areas which bleed when scratched
  • Blistering, cracked and painful skin
  • Persistent licking of a particular area
  • Hair loss
  • Scaly, rough or oozing areas on the skin.

Dog Eczema Treatment


Eczema in dogs can easily be avoided or reversed. Here are a few tips to treat dog eczema:

  • Avoid commercial dog foods and protect your dog from the various environmental irritants. It is important to feed your dog high-quality, meat-based dog food.
  • You must provide healthy dog food to boost your pet’s immune system. It is recommended that you give your dog boiled and shredded meats with rice and mixed vegetables. Dog supplements are also recommended as they not only improve the dog's coat, but also boost dog immune system.
  • Apply compresses on the affected area with potassium permanganate.
  • Add some neem leaf tea and evening primrose oil to the regular dog food. This is an effective remedy and you must continue this until the eczema disappears.
  • Apply neem oil regularly on the skin after bathing your dog. This decreases the itching and also skin rashes.
  • Avoid using chemical shampoos while bathing your dog as this may aggravate the condition. You must wash your dog in a gentle shampoo or shampoos which are specifically formulated to relieve itchy skin.
  • In case of infestation by fleas, apply a topical flea treatment to the dog and then also treat your house with insecticide.
  • You must wash the dog bedding in hot water to avoid the fleas around the dog.
  • You may apply aloe vera gel to inflamed areas to reduce the itchiness.
  • You must trim your dog's toenails to reduce the risk making things worse, as dogs constantly scratch the itchy areas.
  • You must avoid using human perfumes, moisturizers, or talc on your pet’s skin.
 
  Submitted on May 7, 2010  
 
 
 

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