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YOU & YOUR PETS: Fall skin problems in dogs caused by a double whammy

By Dr. Wes Borgman SPECIAL TO THE SENTINEL

October 18, 2009


This fall a lot of dogs are having issues with itchy or smelly skin. All breeds of dog are prone to common skin and respiratory allergies.

Fleas and allergies can be a problem year round, but this fall, many skin problems are actually a combination of flea allergies and allergies to fall pollens that are now abundant in the environment. Because of unseasonably warm weather of late. we expect significant numbers of fleas hatching in the next three to six weeks.

Allergies occur when a dog's immune system is hypersensitive to allergens, such as mites, household dust, pollen, spores, dander and grass. Dogs can be allergic to fleas, pollen in the air, chemicals in products, proteins in food, and even plastic water and food bowls. You should take your pet to the veterinarian for an exam so the source of your pet's discomfort can be identified and the underlying cause treated.

A few dogs develop food allergies. Dog-food companies have capitalized on this possible problem by creating bags of food marketed for skin and allergies. In the case of food allergies, the allergy is caused by protein in the food, and changing types or brands of dog food may not help because most diets have many of the same proteins.

You should always consult with your veterinarian before changing the diet if you suspect a food allergy because changing your pet's diet during an allergy can actually cause your dog to be sensitized to the proteins in the new food, making the allergy worse.

Also, if dog food is stored improperly, new allergens can grow in the food. It is best to buy only one month of food at a time so the food will stay fresh. If you store food in storage bin, dry out the food-storage bins every time you buy a new bag of food.

Many dogs with allergies also get an overgrowth of bacteria or yeast that can cause smelly skin and ear infections. Dogs who lick their feet may also have an allergy. Though dogs with allergies can show a variety of symptoms, one recommendation is always the same:

If you suspect your pet has an allergy, visit your veterinarian, who can rule out other possibilities in a basic exam and come up with a plan to get your pet back to health.

Dr. Wes Borgman owns Seminole Animal Hospital in Sanford. He can be reached at 407-330-7387.