Pet owners would like to do the most beneficial for their pets, particularly when sick and requiring medical treatment. However, there are risks to our pets’ skin health when left at a boarding facility.
Pets suffering from common skin disorders can scratch incessantly and become anxious because of discomfort. Therefore, it is crucial to know what common skin conditions pets may encounter at boarding facilities and the best way to recognize them early. This way, we can keep our pets safe from more severe skin issues by ensuring they get prompt and efficient treatment.
Prevalent Skin Conditions in Boarded Pets
In this section, we’ll discuss some of the most common skin issues that pets who are boarded suffer from and how to spot these issues quickly.
1. Infestations of ticks and fleas
Ticks and fleas are parasites that feed on your pet’s blood and can cause itching and infection-prone skin conditions. They can transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, while fleas can trigger irritation, hair loss, and skin irritations.
Ensure your pet’s flea and tick treatment is up-to-date before taking it to the institution for boarding to prevent possible infestation. Additionally, most facilities require evidence of vaccination against the diseases transmitted by ticks and fleas before allowing pets, so always remember to protect your pet with routine vaccinations.
2. Hot spots
Hot spots, or acute moist dermatitis, are affected, irritated areas of skin that could be quite difficult for pets. Numerous factors can contribute to this development, including tick and flea bites, skin irritations, allergies, and more. Hot patches are identified by redness, leakage, and foul odor. Ensure you take your pet to the veterinarian when you notice these symptoms.
3. Fungal infections
Ringworm and other fungal diseases are common in boarding facilities since they can be quickly passed from pet to pet. Fungal infections such as ringworm could cause damage to your pet’s skin, nails, or even hair, resulting in a rough appearance. Loss of hair, scaly patches, and inflammation are all symptoms of ringworm.
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4. Mange
When mites infiltrate your pet’s skin, they cause severe itching and inflammation, known as mange. Loss of hair, scabs, and constant scratching are all classic symptoms of mange. If you notice these symptoms, you should immediately take your pet to the veterinarian. Mange can be treated using different methods, such as medicinal baths, topical treatments, and pills.
5. Allergy reactions
Various factors, including pollen, food items, and fleas, can cause allergic reactions. A reaction to an allergen can cause the skin to become red, itchy, and then swell. When you notice it, bring your pet to a veterinarian in case of an allergic reaction. Testing for allergies and medication are two options to treat allergies.
6. Skin infections
It’s not unusual for pets to contract contagious skin diseases while in a boarding facility. Many things, like allergies, ticks, flea bites, and hot spots, could cause bacteria-related infections. The swelling, redness, and discharge are indications of skin-related infection. Topical and antibiotics are the most common treatments for skin infections.
This dog dermatologist can help you if your pet is suffering from any of the above-mentioned skin conditions.
Conclusion
Pet owners should be aware of the signs of skin conditions that can develop in boarding establishments. Making sure your pet is healthy and content during their time at the boarding establishment is the top priority, and it’s crucial to ensure they’re current with vaccinations and other preventative treatments.
Do not hesitate to take your pet to a veterinarian for treatment if you notice any skin issues. Be aware that taking action quickly is the best method to safeguard your pet’s health and well-being from potentially fatal skin conditions.
