Dogs suffer from different types of skin and coat problems, including skin allergies, dry skin and infections. Different breeds of dogs are more prone to skin problems and sometimes the age of the dog is a factor in whether they have skin conditions requiring treatment. Even the climate the dog is raised in can affect the skin and coat issues they may have.
Pet owners should observe their dog’s behavior for signs of excess itching or scratching, signs there may be a problem developing. The dog’s coat should be examined regularly for evidence of skin allergies, so the condition can be treated as early as possible when the symptoms are still mild.
Medications for skin and coat conditions come in a variety of formulas and applications, including ointment, gel, spray, powders and towelettes to be topically applied, and capsules to be taken orally.
Atopica
Atopica is administered orally to help control skin allergies, also called dermatitis, in dogs. This is the oral form of the immunosuppressant cyclosporine. The medication works by selectively targeting specific immune cells that cause a dog’s allergic response. Atopica is sold in 10mg, 25mg, 50mg and 100mg dosages, depending on the dog’s weight. It is recommended that Atopica be administered at least one hour before the dog’s meal or two hours after. Atopica is not recommended for dogs with a history of neoplasia, and may increase the pet’s susceptibility to infections. Some dogs have experienced gastrointestinal problems when first taking Atopica.
Dermacool Spray
Dermacool Spray is an anti-pruritic, anti-inflammatory spray prescribed for both dogs and cats. It contains 1% hydrocortisone in a cooling astringent solution. Dermacool Spray provides fast temporary relief for inflammation of the skin as well as pruritis (severe itching); the condition Dermacool Spray treats is also known as moist dermatosis, or �hot spots�.
The spray comes in 2oz and 4oz bottles, and is only available through a veterinarian’s prescription. It is recommended the affected area on the dog or cat be sprayed 2-3 times each day as needed to relieve the symptoms. The person administering the medication should wash their hands after each dose and make sure they do not get any of the spray in their eyes, or their pet’s.
Malaseb Towelettes
Malaseb Towelettes treat skin conditions in dogs and cats through the combined strength of the antibacterial agent Chlorhexidine and antifungal agent Miconazole. The product also has essential fatty acids and Vitamin E to soothe inflamed skin. Each towelette comes individually wrapped for ease of use. Malaseb Towelettes must be prescribed by a veterinarian. Treatment involves thoroughly wiping the affected area 2-3 times each day. The dog must not be allowed to lick the area until the solution has dried. The product should not come into contact with eyes or mucous membranes.
Hexadine Flush
Hexadine Flush has been formulated to deal with skin conditions in dogs and cats where an antiseptic flush can be effective. It contains .25% chlorhexidine gluconate and triclosan. The manufacturer has included a pleasant floral fragrance in the product to appeal to dog owners and encourage them to keep up with the pet’s treatments.
The product, only available through a veterinarian’s prescription, comes in 4oz and 12oz sizes. Hexadine Flush has a patented encapsulation system, Spherulites, that allows for slow release of the ingredients, and longer effectiveness, after the product has been applied. It also contains chitosanide, which helps protect a dog’s skin from environmental damage. The dog owner applies the product once per day to the affected area, then may remove excess solution with a cotton pad.
Pyoben Gel
Pyoben Gel through its water-based thixotropic gel formulation, is designed for better skin penetration and less resulting irritation than other products that are alcohol or acetone based. The gel contains 5% benzoyl peroxide, and is prescribed for use in treating superficial microbial skin infections. This product is also available in shampoo form. Pyoben Gel comes in a 1oz bottle, and must be prescribed by a veterinarian. After cleaning the affected area, the dog owner applies the gel once or twice daily.
Predsinone
Predsinone is used as an anti-inflammatory agent to relieve conditions such as inflamed skin, redness and excessive itching. It is also used to treat a number of other diseases and conditions. The medication is administered orally. This drug is a member of the glutocorticoid class of hormones, a type of steroid. This medication must be prescribed by a veterinarian.
Neo-Predef With Tetracaine Powder
Neo-Predef with tetracaine powder can be used to treat conditions such as acute otitis externa, and acute moist dermatitis. It is also used as a dusting powder to treat minor abrasions, lacerations or cuts. Neo-predef comes in a 15g plastic bottle. The product is formulated with a combination of ingredients to provide fast relief of symptoms, with the anti-inflammatory isoflupredone acetate, the bactericidal agent neomycin and the anesthetic effect of tetracaine. Neo-predef comes in a 15g plastic bottle. This medication must be prescribed by a veterinarian.
