Summer Dogs : How to deal with Fido's skin problems during the summer

As I watch herds of people dressed up in beach attire walk by my house -rolling their coolers and blasting reggeton from their portable stereos, I only think of "Jacinto" a noble Golden/Irish Setter mix who loves to play fetch and eat mangoes.


It turns out that the current weather conditions -shinny summer days followed by rainy nights, have created the perfect conditions for  his skin to develop moist dermatitis also known as Summer Eczema or Hot Spots.


Humans tend to spend more time outdoors during the spring and summer months and as expected so do our pets.

Given that some hounds are more susceptible than others to experience allergies, dermatitis and fleas, we -the care givers, should be aware of what problems we might encounter, how to prevent them and if necessary how to treat them.

The exposure to pollen, foliage and the proliferation of insects are among the main causes to an array of skin related dog problems. 

Here a list of the most common skin problems dogs might encounter during summer:*

Summer Eczema / Hot Spots


Hot spots are small areas that appear red, irritated, and inflamed. They are most commonly found on a dog's head, hips, or chest, and often feel hot to the touch. Hot spots can result from a wide range of conditions, including infections, allergies, insect bites, or excessive licking and chewing. Treatment consists of cleansing the hot spot and addressing the underlying condition.


Skin Allergies


Dogs can have allergic reactions to grooming products, food, and environmental irritants, such as pollen or insect bites. A dog with allergies may scratch relentlessly, and a peek at the skin often reveals an ugly rash. Corticosteroids can help with itchy rashes, but the most effective treatment is to identify and avoid exposure to the allergens.


Fleas

Fleas are the bane of any pet owner. You may not see the tiny insects themselves, but flea droppings or eggs are usually visible in a dog’s coat. Other symptoms include excessive licking or scratching, scabs, and hot spots. Severe flea infestations can cause blood loss and anemia, and even expose your dog to other parasites, such as tapeworms. Treatment may include a topical and/or oral flea killer and a thorough cleaning of the pet’s home and yard.


When to See the Vet

Although most skin problems are not emergencies, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis so the condition can be treated. See your veterinarian if your dog is scratching or licking excessively, or if you notice any changes in your pet's coat or skin, including scaling, redness, discoloration, or bald patches. Once the cause is identified, most skin problems respond well to treatment.

* Sources:
WebMD , About.com , Wikipedia , eHow