Skin problems in dogs are an often-occurring health concern. Causes for their appearance could range from infections and parasites, parasites or allergies.
Skin rashes in dogs often produce intense itching. Sometimes they may also scab or blister up, and these symptoms may even appear in areas of friction on the animal’s body.
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Causes
Numerous causes can contribute to red, itchy lesions on a dog’s skin erupting with redness, irritation and inflammation, such as bacterial infections (hot spots or wet eczema) or yeast infections that develop when scratching themselves or rubbing their ears against surfaces.
Other causes could include allergies, which often manifest themselves by dogs licking and chewing at their armpits, groin, abdomen, paws and between toes of their paws. This irritates their skin resulting in hair loss, skin thickening and itching that often needs treating with shampoos, creams or ointments prescribed by veterinarians; supplements like salmon oil can also be helpful as it provides essential Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that keep their skin healthy.
Immune disorders like Lupus can also cause itchy and flaky skin in the armpit area and elsewhere on your pet’s body, so if this rash appears due to an underlying illness it’s essential that they see their veterinarian immediately and start treatment as soon as possible.
Symptoms
Dogs suffering from bacterial infections may develop painful, inflamed armpit rashes which the veterinarian will usually treat with oral or topical antibiotics to clear up. Yeast infections – while they can occur anywhere on your pet’s body such as in their groin area and ears flaps – usually affect its paws or ears where yeast thrives, leading to symptoms including irritated, itchy and discolored skin.
Some skin issues in dogs may stem from nutritional deficiencies. Zinc is known to help regulate oil production and aid wound healing; specific vitamins like Vitamin A are vital in supporting healthy tissues in their diet; without enough of these essential vitamins in their diet, their skin could become dry and flaky.
Skin lesions and rashes that don’t heal may be an indicator of an immune disorder such as Lupus, an incurable condition wherein your own tissues attack themselves, causing severe itching and hair loss in affected pets. Your vet will run tests to identify what the source is of your dog’s symptoms.
Treatment
Your pet may benefit from using a shampoo designed specifically to soothe sensitive skin or medication like prednisone injections or pills to relieve itching; these may include anti-itch sprays containing either 1.5% hydrocortisone or 1.5% lidocaine which you can get from most pharmacies or online.
For severe cases of pyoderma, your vet will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear away bacterial infection and may suggest an ear treatment plan to address any infections in ear flaps and canals. Grooming regularly while avoiding potential sources of irritation like chemicals and feeding a diet rich in skin-nourishing nutrients like omega-3s and omega-6s will help keep armpits free from irritations or rashes.
Prevention
Preventing armpit rash in dogs is essential to their overall wellbeing, so washing frequently with mild medicated shampoo, applying soothing cream or lotion and grooming regularly as well as providing them with a high-quality diet rich in healthy oils and fats can all play a key role in keeping their skin in optimal condition.
Regular vet checkups are also crucial, as they allow veterinarians to detect health issues early. This is particularly relevant if your dog suffers from Cushing’s disease or hypothyroidism which could result in armpit rashes.
Armpit rash can usually be treated using a topical solution that contains either 1% hydrocortisone or 1.5% lidocaine, typically taken several times a day until your pet no longer displays symptoms such as pruritus or itchiness. Antibiotics may also be prescribed depending on its cause – for instance if Staphylococcus bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus infection has caused it, antibiotics will likely be necessary to address its effect.
