Friday, January 16, 2009

Could Your Dogs Canine Skin Problem Be Caused By A Dog Allergy?

Could Your Dogs Canine Skin Problem Be Caused By A Dog Allergy?
By Jennifer P. April

Is she suffering from dry, itchy skin or constant hot spotsred sores on the skin?

A canine skin problem can be something as simple as over bathingwhich can dry out the skin or it can be something more serious and indicate an illness or allergy.

If your dog has a chronic skin condition you find difficult to get rid of or keep under control, she may have a dog allergy.

About 20% of dogs in the United States have a dog allergy and of this 20%, about 10% are allergic to food. The rest of allergies are a combination of flea, contact, inhalant (environmental allergies) and bacterial.

All of these allergies can be treated.

Of course, the first step is to determine what type of allergy it is. You can start with eliminating corn and wheat from your dogs dietthe most common food allergens. Check the dog food labels carefully. You may have to go to a specialty pet food store to find a brand without corn or wheat filler. Look for a protein source to be the first ingredient on the label.

Fleas can also cause canine skin problems, besides the usual irritation, your pet could even be allergic to them. If your pet has fleas then youll have to take drastic measures to de-flea your pet, yourself and your home. Fleas are small, dark creatures usually found close to your pets skin if she has them. Youll see them pretty easily, especially if your pet has a light colored coat. They can also live in your carpet and will resort to biting humans. They usually leave small red marks as an indication of their bites.

Besides allergies, your pet could have an infection like scabies or dermatitis. If youve already ruled out allergies, or you suspect its cause is something else you should visit your vet for a professional opinion.

Some things that can help soothe dry, irritated skin: *Oatmeal Shampoo used with periodic bathing. Monthly bathing is frequent enough. Every week is too often and will dry out a dogs skin.

*Omega 3 supplementsFish oil pills can be givenmy dog eats them like treats--or you can get a liquid to pour over the food, this will also help to give your pet a beautiful, shiny coat

*Diet Change eliminating corn and wheat as these are the most common food allergies

*A trip to the vet to eliminate an illness like scabies

A canine skin problem can have many culprits. It may take a process of trial and elimination before finding the underlying cause and the thing that most helps. But you can find help and your dog will feel so much better!

Jennifer April bakes healthy, natural dog treats and offers healthy dog treat recipes from her website, http://www.all-natural-dog-treat.com Your stop for all-natural-dog-treat recipes and tips on improving your dogs health and happiness all naturally.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=JenniferP.April
http://EzineArticles.com/?Could-Your-Dogs-Canine-Skin-Problem-Be-Caused-By-A-Dog-Allergy?&id=446923

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Holistic Approach to Dog Skin Allergy

Holistic Approach to Dog Skin Allergy
By Mary Rose Antonio

The best way to deal with dog skin allergy is to approach the problem holistically. One dog allergy solution is to make sure your dog enjoys overall good health and has a strong immune system. This way, he'll less likely to react to allergies and develop uncomfortable symptoms.

The following are surefire ways to beat dog skin allergy:

1) Feed your dog some meat - gradually switch to a healthy diet made from high quality whole meats (not meat by-products). You can also try feeding him chicken, turkey, salmon, bison, rabbit, duck, or venison. Remember to rotate the meat.

2) Don't give your dog grains - and that means no corn, wheat and other grains. Try alternatives such as gluten-free brown rice, spelt, amaranth, quinoa, or kamut. These are available at health stores.

3) No preservatives - BHT, ethoxyquin, and potassium sorbate are common artificial additives that are toxic to your dog's health. Check your dog food's label if it consists of any of the above ingredients. If it does, buy other dog food. I use wellness for my dogs.

4) Give him supplements - Antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E as well as CoQ10 and selenium strengthens his immune system and helps prevent allergic reactions.

5) Use natural pest control - Adding garlic, Vitamin B1 or brewer's yeast to his diet helps repel fleas. Commercial flea and tick powders, shampoos, and collars are made with toxic chemicals that can irritate your dog's skin and overburden his immune system.

6) Keep his area clean - avoid using chemicals to clean his area and surroundings.

7) Avoid over-vaccinations - over-vaccination damages immunity and can lead to the development of allergies and other problems.

8) Use herbs - They can help the body rid itself of toxins, including those substances that cause allergic reactions such as burdock, alfalfa, red clover, dandelion , and spirulina.

9) Keep your dog clean - avoid cheap commercial shampoos and conditioners - they dry out your dog's hair and skin and even aggravate his allergies.

Dealing with dog skin allergy holistically takes time and commitment but it is the best dog allergy solution you can give to your dog.

Mary Rose Antonio is a physical therapist for 20 years now, a great believer in natural healing and a proud owner of two dogs. She is also the owner of http://www.ultimate-guide-to-dog-care.com. She invites you to learn more about taking care of your dog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=MaryRoseAntonio
http://EzineArticles.com/?Holistic-Approach-to-Dog-Skin-Allergy&id=365051