licking, and hyperventilating

Question
Recently, my small dog spent the week-end boarding at the vet.  Now she licks "herself" constantly.  Can dogs get yeast infections or something like that?  Sometimes she can't even sleep for licking!  What do you think this could be?  

Answer
Hello Nita -

Yes, it is very possible that your pet has a yeast infection. Candida albicans (yeast) normally inhabits the intestinal tract and body of dogs but when a healthy dog is put into contact with a dog who may have a yeast infection on their skin they will very easily contract it. Your dog may have a lowered immune system which is why she has contracted the bacteria.

This can be very easily treated and does not require prescription medication. First begin by adding Garlic powder to her food. Garlic is an anti-microbial and will help to kill the Candida. Don't be afraid to sprinkle it with a heavy hand, dogs love Garlic and she should eat it up right away. The only draw back to adding Garlic powder to the food is flatulence. It may be a little stinky but it is helping to push the bacteria through the system. At the first sign of illness begin to add Garlic to your pets food, you will notice a difference in a few days. This works well for female yeast infections as well but the Garlic is administered in a different way.  :>)

Begin to administer Probiotics such as Acidolphilus to your pets food as well. Most pet stores sell it and it is completely safe to give her on a daily basis regardless of her age. Acidolphilus which is found in yogurt, helps to strengthen and increase the about of good flora (bacteria) in the gut necessary for healthy disgestion. Antibiotics kill this bacteria which is why a lot of time women will get a yeast infection after taking them. This will also help support her immune system and keep the risk of her contracting this again at a low.

You can also try the herb Neem. It is a great herb and is primarily used as a blood detoxifier for humans and animals. It can by made into a soap which you would wash your pet in on a daily basis, tea which can be added daily to your pets diet or a lotion. Either way this is a wonderful herb and I highly recommend it along with the other remedies I have listed above. You can purchase Neem products from the website  www.doggiesparadise.com. It is fairly priced and well worth it.

If you choose not to begin a regimen on Neem, the Garlic and Probiotic should clear the yeast from her system in about a week. If you have any other problems or questions please contact me.

I hope this information has helped you and your pet.

If you would like additional information on natural and herbal remedies for humans or pets, please contact me at   wintersaurora@yahoo.com and I will be happy to assist you and send you a catalog of my homemade remedies.

Thank you and best wishes.

Sincerely,
Sharon Hubbs, AHG
Certified Natural Health Consultant & Herbalist