Dog Rash Treatments

Identification

• Dog rashes appear as red spots, blotchy areas, pimpled or flaky skin, bald patches or matted fur. Symptoms of dog rashes can be apparent through observations of pet behaviors such as compulsive licking, biting and itching. When a dog's skin is tender due to a rash, he will try to relieve his own pain by soothing the area with repetitive licking or by trying to remove the ailment through anxious gnawing. As a dog continues to self-mutilate the rash, harmful bacteria can infest, worsening the condition. Treating a dog rash at the first sign of irritation is an effective measure, providing quick recovery, while preventing infectious complications.

Significance

• Diagnosing the cause of a dog's skin rash is the first step in providing the appropriate treatment. Fleas, ticks, insects, mites and parasites can infest in a dog's fur and skin, biting and leaving abrasions or sores that lead to pimple-like rashes, crusty or bumpy skin. Ringworm and yeast infections are fungal forms of dermatitis that can cause rashes and discomfort for dogs. Allergies to foods, treats, bones, shampoos and environmental triggers such as grass and pollen can effect a dog's skin, causing hives paw-licking reactions and congestion. Certain breeds such as terriers are hypersensitive and prone to allergies and weather fluctuations. Understanding rash triggers can assist owners in preventing the initial onset and can help with selecting the proper remedy.

Effects

• Topical antihistamine or hydrocortisone remedies can provide soothing relief to the affected area. Veterinarian-recommended shampoos that are hypoallergenic or made for sensitive skin can help strip away oils and irritants that may rest on a dog's skin from outdoor allergen exposure. In the case of allergies, dogs should be kept away from triggers that cause rash outbreaks such as foreign material, flowering plants, pesticides and sprays. Gentle dog food combinations of lamb and rice or fish and potato are recommended. Preventative treatments are available for topical use against ticks and fleas and can be applied monthly, along with a flea and tick collar to prevent rashes associated with infestations.

Prevention/Solution

• Homeopathic treatments use natural oils, herbs and rinses to rid dogs of rashes. Fleas can be treated by combing a dog regularly with a flea brush, by using eucalyptus oil baths as a repellent and by dusting herbs such as rosemary and rue on top of the dog's fur and bedding. Vitamins, garlic and parasite preventions can be added to a dog's food to help fight infection and stop the cause of the rash. Frequent cleaning of dog beds, toys, carpets and furniture will eliminate pests from the environment, preventing the onset of a rash. Mowing lawns regularly and using beneficial nematodes to reduce outdoor pests may help to relieve related rashes.

Considerations

• In cases of prolonged symptoms and reoccurring rashes, consultation with a veterinarian is suggested, as there may be an underlying condition or prescription treatment needed to clear the rash and restore healthy skin. Vets can prescribe antibiotics to clear infection and prescription-strength antihistamines and steroids for dermatitis conditions or prolonged allergy symptoms. Prescription shampoos are available for regular bathing, as are cortisone shots for extended relief. Regardless of the cause, rashes are uncomfortable and hinder optimum health in dogs. Weakened immunity caused by infection can allow pests, fungi and parasites to invade a dog's skin, resulting in more persistent itching, licking and biting that will lead to further irritation and discomfort.