Groomers will see skin problems that are common in dogs, that the owner may not realise are present. Common skin issues are listed below. Please see your Local vet for diagnosis, prevention and treatment.
ALLERGIC DERMATITIS
Many things can create a dog to have an allergic reaction. Commonly environmental irritants like pollen and insect bites, grooming products and diet. A dog with allergies often will scratch relentlessly, unfortunately this often causes the skin to become red and inflamed
ATOPIC DERMATITIS
Associated with environmental irritates like pollen and grass, dogs will often lick their paws and display a red, itchy rash. Serious cases of atopic dermatitis may present skin infections, hair loss and or even ear infections.
COLLAR ROT
Trigged by wearing a collar for long periods of time, the collar rubs the coat continually that it begins to disappear, and sores begin to form. Other causes can be when the hair beneath begins to matt and moisture is trapped, forming bacteria to grow, creating sores and infections.
HIVES
Hives can occur when a dog has been in contact with insect bites, grooming products, chemicals or vaccinations. The face may swell, and small lumps appear on the skin. These lumps are quite uncomfortable and very itchy.
HOT SPOTS
Lesions that appear suddenly and grow rapidly in size. Caused by and made worse through biting, licking or scratching. Skin that appears to be red, oozing, warm to touch or itchy are generally signs. Hair can sometimes matt over the area, obscuring the size and the degree of the problem.
RINGWORM
Ringworm is a fungus, not a parasite. The fungus is most prevalent in hot, humid climates. Ringworm is highly contagious to both dogs and humans.
SEBORRHOEA
Skin will become quite greasy and develop into dandruff.
SHEDDING AND HAIR LOSS (ALOPECIA)
Can be seen on double coated breeds after clipping the coat short, patches of skin where hair no longer grows or grows back incorrectly – different colour, texture, length etc.
YEAST INFECTION
Often associated with a yeast infection is a yellowish discharge with a pungent odour like the yeast used in cooking. Skin is often irritated, itchy, dry and discoloured. A yeast infection is often easily recognisable.