With allergic skin conditions in dogs, there is a vicious cycle of persistent itching and scratching that may be more common than you realise. There is always a reason behind a dog’s itching and scratching. Getting to the route of the problem and uncovering the cause is vital to treating an itchy skin condition.
The Itch Scratch Cycle
An allergic response in dogs often takes the form of an itchy skin. Dogs are exposed to allergens in their environment on a daily basis. Those dogs that have a weakened or dysfunctional skin barrier are affected by the penetration of environmental irritants and allergens into the first layer of the skin. This triggers an inflammatory response, which stimulates an itch sensation. Dogs are prompted to scratch the itchy skin, which further weakens the skin barrier and causes breakages in the skin. As a result more allergens and irritants enter the skin, perpetuating the itching and associated scratching.
How you can help?
It is advised to seek veterinary advice if your dog’s itching becomes serious. A veterinarian will be able to identify the route of the problem and recommend a suitable remedy. The list of possible causes include:
- Environmental allergies (pollens, grasses etc.)
- Parasites such as fleas or mange
- Nutritional allergies
- Bacterial skin infections
- Yeast or fungal infections
Ask your vet about Efazol, a skin care products for dogs.
Efazol is a nutritional aid for the management of canine skin conditions. The product has a dual mode of action: Efazol protects the skin from the penetration of allergic particles by strengthening the skin barrier, and reduces inflammation in the skin thereby reducing the itch.
The formulation has an optimum balance of Essential Fatty Acids (Omega 3 and 6), Zinc, Biotin and Vitamin A. Each of these carry benefits for canine skin:
- Omega 3: Helps to reduce inflammation[i].
- Omega 6: Promotes a healthy skin and glossy coat
- Zinc: Deficiencies can lead to skin disorders such as hair loss[ii].
- Biotin: Helps treat allergic reactions and skin conditions[iii].
- Vitamin A: Helps treat poor quality skin and hair[iv].
Efazol is administered daily over your dog’s food.
If you are looking to maintain a glossy coat, Efazol can be administer at half the regular dose.
Find Efazol at vets and vet shops.
[i] http://www.1800petmeds.com/education/benefits-giving-omega-3-pets-9.htm
[ii] http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1659&aid=718
[iii] https://www.vetinfo.com/biotin-for-dogs.html
[iv] http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+1659&aid=710