Skin infections are one of the most common reasons that people bring their pet to the veterinarian. Pyoderma refers to an infection of the skin and can be bacterial, fungal, or parasitic (mites).
What are the causes, symptoms, and diagnosis of bacterial skin infections?
Symptoms can range from mild irritation to severe and painful infection. Infection may appear in the form of pimple-like pustules on the skin, dry patches of flaking skin, itching crusted skin, infected hair follicles, hair loss, and swelling or ulcerated with skin odour.
What are the causes, symptoms, and treatment for ringworms?
Ringworm infection may represent as circular areas of hair loss, dry, brittle hair, scabby, inflamed skin and rough, brittle claws.
What are the causes and treatment of allergic skin diseases?
Dogs can get allergies just like humans do. Dog allergies may be caused by the allergens found in pollen, animal dander, plants, insects, food, and medication. These allergies can cause excessive itching, scratching, and rashes. It can also cause sneezing, watery eyes, paw chewing, and skin inflammation. In some cases, dogs have conditions, such as atopic dermatitis that is associated with and may be caused by allergies. Contact us to discuss proper diagnosis and treatment options for your pet.
What are the causes and treatment for parasitic skin diseases?
Parasitic skin disease in dogs occurs as a result of an infestation of external parasites (ectoparasites), which live and get their sustenance from the consumption of blood or epithelial skin cells of the canine host. Examples include fleas, ticks, and mange. Your pet will require a full physical exam in addition to some other diagnostics/testing to determine the causative agent and to implement the proper treatment.
What are the causes and treatment for hormonal skin diseases?
Your dog may be losing hair or have an unhealthy coat due to hormonal reasons. One of the most common causes of hormonal hair loss is Hypothyroidism or low thyroid. Additionally, Cushing’s disease or atypical Cushing’s disease are other common causes. Your pet will require a full physical exam in addition to some other diagnostics/testing to determine the cause and to implement the proper treatment.