Causes Of Bacterial & Fungal Skin Infections In Dogs
The immune system typically controls the many fungi and bacteria that live on the skin, so they do not cause issues under normal circumstances. But skin conditions may change or the immune system may become suppressed, leading to fungal or bacterial infections.
Two common causes for yeast infections include deficiencies in the immune system or a buildup of oil on the skin. While yeast infections are not contagious, they will often return unless the underlying allergy or skin condition is corrected.
Certain breeds may be genetically susceptible to yeast infections, such as the Chihuahua, Lhasa Apso, Silky Terrier, Basset Hound, Australian Terrier, Cocker Spaniel, West Highland White Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Shetland Sheepdog, Poodle, and Dachshund.
When a dog excessively licks, chews or scratches his skin, the skin can become irritated, kicking off a vicious cycle. These behaviors may begin to appear if your dog is allergic to something in the environment, food or medication, or fleas.
Staph infections may also be caused by secondary infections, such as chronic debilitating diseases, fungal infections in the blood or allergies. Dogs of any breed or age can be afflicted, but older and senior dogs will be more vulnerable due to their weaker immune systems.
Diagnosing & Treating Fungal Infections In Dogs
There are a number of fungal infections that can affect your canine companion ranging from localized fungal infections which affect the dog’s skin to systematic fungal infections that invade your pup’s body affecting their lungs, bones or eyes. Today our Tucson veterinary specialists explain more about fungal infections in dogs.
Diagnosis Of Fungal Dermatitis & Bacterial Skin Infections In Dogs
As mentioned above, it can be challenging to isolate the cause of infection and which specific condition your dog may be suffering from when it comes to bacterial and fungal skin infections.
At Falls Road Animal Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic tools and run tests in our in-house lab, so we can offer fast testing and precise diagnoses for your pets medical issues. This saves precious time in our efforts to effectively and efficiently treat your pets condition, and bring much-needed relief from his symptoms. https://www.fallsroad.com/site/diagnostics-lab-baltimore-vet
If the cause of infection is a food allergy, this can lead your dog to lick, chew and scratch as his skin – behaviors that can propagate the problem.
Our vets can offer knowledgeable expertise in pet nutrition based on years of experience with numerous dog breeds. We can help diagnose your pets condition and discover your pets nutritional needs together, then provide a medically supervised, veterinarian-approved nutrition plan to help them stay healthy. https://www.fallsroad.com/site/core-services-baltimore-vet/nutritional-consulting
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
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What To Do If You Suspect Your Dog Has A Yeast Infection
If you think your dog is suffering from a yeast infection, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. If your dog does have a yeast infection, then that means two things:
- The overgrowth on your dog’s skin or in your dog’s ears needs to be addressed.
- The underlying condition that compromised the health of the skin or ears needs to be addressed.
If you don’t correct or address the underlying condition, then even if you treat the yeast infection with anti-yeast medication, the problem will return. Treatment of the underlying cause depends on what it is. Allergies can be managed with special food, reducing exposure to allergies or allergy medication. Hormonal conditions can be managed with vet-prescribed medication.
Recovery And Management Of Yeast Infection In Dogs
Recovery depends on the severity of the infection. If its mild and caught in the early stages, it can clear up in a few days. If its a severe infection, it can take up to a few weeks to completely heal.
Managing a yeast infection requires continuous monitoring of your dogs immune system. Frequent baths with antifungal shampoo and sprays will help soothe the skin, although you should check with your veterinarian before beginning any at-home treatments.
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Types Of Fungal Infections In Dogs
If your dog is diagnosed with a fungal infection it could be either a systematic infection or a localized infection.
Systematic fungal infections affect your dog’s major body systems, whereas localized fungal infections are typically seen on your dog’s skin or external features.
Common Systematic Fungal Infections in Dogs
Systematic fungal infections go beyond your pup’s skin and invade your dog’s inner body systems. Your dog’s lungs, nasal passages, bone or eyes could be affected by a systematic fungal infection.
Aspergillosis
In dogs, Aspergillosis is a fungal infection that is caused by a number of different Aspergillus species which are found in soil all around the world. Aspergillus is responsible for two main types of infection in dogs:
Cryptococcosis
Blastomycosis
Localized Fungal Infections in Dogs
Fungal infections affecting your pet’s skin can be tricky to recognize since the itching and scratching which is a common symptom of these infections is often mistakenly believed to be the result of dry skin or flea bites. There are two common forms of localized fungal infections commonly treated by our Tucson veterinary dermatological specialists:
Dermatophytes
Fungal Dermatitis
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
Yeast Infections Are Caused By An Immune System Issue
We know that yeast thrives in particular environments outside of the body, so what does the immune system have to do with yeast infections? In most cases, yeast infections occur because of overactive immune function. An overactive immune system triggers inflammation, which creates warmth in and on a dogs body. And since yeast grows best in warm environments, it grows particularly well at sites on a dogs body where the skin is thinner and the surface temperature is warmer, such as the ears, armpits or the groin area.
Yeast infections can also occur when the immune system under-reacts to an infection, although this is far less common. For example, the immune system of a dog on corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medication may not respond properly to an infection or other immune challenge. The yeast population can then grow out of control.
In short, yeast thrives on dogs with an imbalanced immune system. Therefore, restoring normal immune system function is key to treating the root cause of yeast infections.
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Causes Of Fungal Infections In Dogs
Caused by Sporothrix schenckii, an organism found throughout the world in soil, vegetation and timber. Infection will typically occur when the organism enters the body of your dog through a skin wound when your dog has contact with a plant or soil with the fungus, or should a sharp object with the fungus cut his skin. The infection may only be at the place where the fungus entered or may spread to lymph nodes that are near the infection site.
Cryptococcosis
Caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, which is found throughout the world in soil, and bird droppings. Infection is due to inhaling spores or the spores contaminating wounds. If your dog is immunosuppressed, he will have a greater chance of developing cryptococcosis.
Histoplasmosis
The fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which can be found throughout the world, cause histoplasmosis. A soil fungus is responsible for the disease and infection happens when airborne spores are inhaled by your dog. The fungus enter your dogs bloodstream from the main infection site and are distributed through his body.
Summary Of Yeast Infections In Dogs
Yeast infections are a common skin concern for dogs, causing itching and irritation. They typically occur in moist environments, like on the skin or in the ears or even the folds of their face. Often caused by allergies, yeast infections should be treated promptly, to avoid secondary infections and alleviate your dogs discomfort. As some dogs can be prone to recurrent yeast infections, its important to identify the root cause and take precautions ahead of time to protect their immune system.
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Causes Of Yeast Dog Dermatitis & Yeast Ear Infections
Yeast, bacteria and fungi occur naturally on your dog’s skin, but under normal circumstances, they don’t lead to health issues. Nonetheless, if something causes your dog’s skin condition to change or their immune system to become less effective opportunistic yeast infections can result.
A few of the most common causes of yeast dermatitis and ear infections in dogs include:
- An underactive or overreactive immune system
- Foods high in sugar and carbs
- Heat and humidity
- Trapped object in the ear, ear wax, or discharge
- Various ear drops
Treating Your Dogs Yeast Skin Infection
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Is There A Cure For Yeast Infection In Dogs
While yeast infections can be cured, some dogs are prone to recurrent infections. The best way to prevent a possible occurrence is to take care of your dogs immune system properly. When you treat the root of the problem, you are not only taking care of the possible yeast infection but other potential skin issues that are a result of problems that originate in the digestive tract.
Are Yeast Infections In Dogs Contagious For Humans Or Other Pets
If your dog has a yeast infection, the yeast cells cannot be transmitted to another pet even if they come in direct contact with the infected dogs skin. What should be noted is that a yeast infection can lead to a secondary bacterial or fungus infection, which may be contagious in some cases. This holds true for humans as well secondary infections, such as ringworm, are contagious and owners should take precaution when directly handling their dog.
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What Causes Fungal Skin Infections
We know that yeast thrives in hot, humid environments, and infections can happen if your pets immune system is compromised or if they are taking strong immunosuppressive drugs. An increase in the amount of oils produced on the skin, or excess skin oils, can cause the condition.
Other yeast-like organisms or fungi may invade the circulation system and cause issues in your dogs organs. These more serious fungi can include histoplasmosis, cryptococcus and Valley Fever, among others.
Fortunately, fungal dermatitis is not contagious, but can recur unless the underlying skin condition or allergy is controlled with medication.
As for which breeds are predisposed to yeast infections, be on guard if youve got a Cocker Spaniel, Shetland Sheepdog, Dachshund, Basset Hound, West Highland White Terrier, Silky Terrier, Maltese Terrier, Australian Terrier, Poodle, or Lhasa Apso.
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Preventing Yeast Infections In Dogs
Yeast infections are a sign that something else is going on. The most effective way to prevent your dog from getting a yeast infection is to address any underlying causes. It can be as simple as drying your dog’s ears after they go for a swim. Be sure to take your dog in for yearly examinations and annual bloodwork. That way, your vet can make sure to promptly treat any underlying issues, including hormonal problems or allergies. If your dog has a food allergy, talk with your vet about trying a prescription food that either has limited ingredients or is hypoallergenic.
Lets Talk About Allergies
An allergy is a broad term used to describe something that triggers an overactive immune response in your dogs body. There are a lot of potential allergies in your dogs environment that could be causing them to be in a state of excess inflammation. And an environment with excess inflammation is a perfect home for yeast.
Exposure to allergens can make dogs more prone to yeast infections. Seasonal allergies to pollen, atopic dermatitis , mites, and certain ingredients in your dogs food are among the most common triggers of inflammation for your dog.
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Recovery Of Fungal Infection In Dogs
Because fungal infections are difficult to clear out, your dog may react poorly to the antifungal medication in the first 24 to 72 hours of treatment. Your dog is at highest risk if the infection has spread to the lungs, as the dying fungal organisms may trigger an inflammatory response. Monitor your dog closely for signs of respiratory distress, and alert your veterinarian immediately if your dog appears to have trouble breathing.
Over the course of the treatment, your dog will likely be lethargic and unwilling to eat. Provide a quiet, comfortable place where your dog can rest while the antifungal medication takes hold and encourage your dog to eat as necessary. If your dog responds well to treatment past the first week, chances of recovery are high, though there is always the risk of a relapse after the drugs are discontinued.
How To Prevent Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are incredibly common in dogs. You cant always predict how or when your dog will be exposed. However, there are steps you can take to protect your dog from fungal infection:
- Bathe your dog after they swim in a natural body of water or hike through brush
- After your dog bathes or swims, dry her off completely, including the outer part of the ears
- Feed a high-quality diet
If you or your dog sitter suspect your dog has a fungal infection, schedule an appointment with the vet. There are anti-fungal shampoos for dogs which inhibit fungal and bacterial growth. Fungal infections are very common, and typically very treatable, but you wont know how to treat your dog until you consult a vet.
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What Are The Treatment Options For Yeast Infection In Dogs
Treatment options for a yeast infection on dogs skin include systemic and topical therapeutic options.
Topical Therapy – Topical therapy is very beneficial for areas of the skin and paws that are affected by yeast. This therapy helps to soothe the skin and also has anti-fungal properties.
Various topical agents have been effective in the treatment of yeast infections, including:
– Antifungal wipes
– Topical antifungal creams or ointments
Systemic Therapy – Systemic therapy is used to treat yeast infections that are more widespread or severe. This type of therapy helps to target the yeast infection from the inside out.
Oral antifungal medications are typically used to treat systemic yeast infections. These include:
– Ketoconazole
– Itraconazole
– Fluconazole
Systemic therapy is typically reserved for more severe generalized cases of yeast infection, or for yeast infections that do not respond to topical therapy.
Treatment For Dogs With Fungal Dermatitis & Staph Infections
If your dog is diagnosed with a yeast dermatitis infection treatment will include oral or topical treatments or a combination of both based on the severity of your pups condition. These medications are highly effective, though they must be given for a prolonged period . These drugs can have potential side effects on the liver that will require close monitoring with routine blood tests.
Staph infections in dogs are typically treated with oral antibiotics. Antibacterial shampoo or topical ointments can also be used for these types of skin conditions. Depending on the severity of the infection, treatment may take several weeks before you will begin seeing an improvement in the condition of your dog’s skin.
Because staph infections can be passed between dogs and from dogs to humans, extra care should be taken when handling and treating your dog.
Discuss any supplements or medications your dog is currently taking with your veterinarian so they can choose the best treatment for your pets skin problem while helping to reduce the risk of interactions between drugs.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet’s condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
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