| Under all that copious fur there is skin. Skin that
is susceptible to a myriad of diseases and afflictions just as we humans are.
The difference being that in humans we can readily see a health problem. In a
dog, skin health problems are not readily apparent until the dog gives us an indication.
Usually, the indications are excessive licking and scratching. In general we humans
tend to take our skin for granted. If we go out into the sun, we use sun screen.
If we have dry skin, we use a lotion. And occasionally we notice irregularities
and then we go to the doctor. We're pretty complacent and tend to think of skin
as the wrap that molds our body. With dogs, the skin goes beyond being a mold.
It is an organ in itself. This organ regulates the heat in a dogs body and works
in conjunction with the foot pads which allow the dog to perspire. As
with humans the skin communicates sensations such as pain, heat, cold, touch,
etc. to the brain. An animals skin also processes vitamin D just as we do. When
we take our pet to the veterinarian, one of the usual examinations done is one
of the skin. When the veterinarian back brushes the fur he/she is not only looking
for parasites such as fleas and mites, but they are also looking at the skin.
Dry skin and fur can indicate illness. Yellow skin can indicate jaundice and blue
skin can indicate heart problems. Rashes can mean allergies. Dogs
can have seasonal and environmental allergies as well as food allergies. Food
allergies may not always be associated with new foods but can also come from foods
they have eaten for years and have become sensitive to due to many reasons. So
called "hot-spots", for example may be a result of a dog no longer being
able to digest a certain food. Your veterinarian will recommend ways to test your
dogs diet and recommend a course of treatment. Many dogs such as spaniels have
seasonal and environmental allergies which can manifest themselves not only with
sneezing and watery eyes, but also with skin rashes. Allergies
to fleas and medicines can also cause skin rashes. There are now veterinarians
who are specializing in animal allergies and dermatology. Should your veterinarian
find it necessary a referral could be made for diagnosis and treatment. There
are also genetic skin disorders and glandular skin disorders. There are several
diseases associated with ovarian and testicular problems. Diagnosis and treatment
can be made by your veterinarian. Dogs are also susceptible to various types of
skin fungus. They are highly contagious to humans and other animals. Mange is
another skin disease that is contagious. Quick diagnosis and treatment is essential.
In addition to the previously mentioned skin problems,
there are also seborreic (seborrhea) skin diseases, tumors, melanomas, infected
sores, mites, etc., that can be diagnosed by your veterinarian. The
purpose of this article is to make owners aware that the care and regular examination
of your dogs skin is essential. Before buying a dog, consult with the breeder
and a veterinarian. Know the diseases which are specific to the breed you desire.
Know your dogs body as you should know your own. Check for skin problems during
regular grooming. If you find an area of concern, consult
your veterinarian immediately. Do not make a self diagnosis and start a course
of treatment. Only a veterinarian can make a proper diagnosis and recommend oral
and/or topical treatments. Delay in proper diagnosis and treatment can cause delay
in recovery and possible spread of the ailment and unnecessary prolonged discomfort
for your beloved pet. -------------------------------------------------
// ------------------------------------------------ Reprinted with permission
by Terrie Simpson. | 
