So what’s going on with your dog?

A lot of dogs pass through my doors which means I get to spend time bathing and drying them. This process unearths any prevalent skin problems and lumps and bumps your dog may have. I also listen to your concerns about your dog’s health. I know a lot of information is available online, but I trained to become a groomer at a veterinary practice where my knowledge of diagnosing ailments was formed. I’m not pertaining to be a vet of course, far from it, but I’ve learned from the ‘horses mouth’ so to speak.

The top three matters that arise are:

• Tear staining
• Dandruff
• Fungal infection (red rashes, itchiness, sores)

Also tooth decay but this is coming in October (watch this space).

Tear staining

These red, brown or pink stains feature more on white dogs and those with short noses, but can affect any dog. It’s different to a weepy eye. At Gentle Paws I always check around the eye and cut the hair away around the eye as close as I can. I also cut away the eyelashes in severe cases as these can cause immense discomfort. You can use a tear staining solution (I sell these in the salon) or warm water to gently cleanse the eye area every day.

Using purified, distilled water in plastic bowls is supposed to help.

Applying coconut oil can also be of value. As is, using a blueberry facial wash.

The most important thing is to make sure nothing serious is happening in the eye, so if this is a recurring or recent problem it’s best to go to the vets to assess the situation.

Dandruff

The veterinary practice where I trained always advised an Omega 3 supplement for flaky skin. Of course, using a nourishing shampoo with aloe vera helps too.

I personally find in the salon that those dogs who like the water predominantly have itchy flaky skin, this is because, even though they are vigorously towel dried they are still damp in certain areas and the skin can become itchy. Regular grooming and a mud bath will help to infuse the skin with lots of minerals. This can really help.

I use Nootie Aloe & Oatmeal Nourishing shampoo in Cucumber & Melon in the salon. (Available to buy in store from September 2022).

Other tried and tested brands recommended by vets are Rocco & Roxie Soothing Oatmeal shampoo and Earthbath Oatmeal shampoo.

Fungal Infections / Yeast Infections

A fungal infection (sometimes referred to as yeast infection) is a fungus that grows in moist areas. It affects the top layer of the dogs skin and can take on all different kinds of aliases. From redness to lumps, from swellings to sores, skin dis-colouration to a foul odour. It can affect any part of the body and is a common ailment.

Breeds that are prone to it are:

Shih Tzus
West Highland White Terriers
American Cocker Spaniels
Basset Hounds
English Setters
Boxers
Poodles
Dachshunds
Australian Silky Terriers

Once a fungal infection is diagnosed the vet will suggest a treatment. In severe cases, anti-biotics will be prescribed. There are anti fungal shampoos on the market. I tend to use hibiscrub (which needs to be diluted).

You can help your dog avoid this by cleaning around the mouth and any skin folds on a daily basis.

Thanks for reading and good luck with your upkeep of your dog’s wellbeing. It’s all worth it in the end. Less vet bills and less worry!