Ask The Vet RadioShow Notes

Show #: 06-111

Show Description: "Pet Dermatology”

Audio Files: ATVR-06-111.mp3, ATVR-06-111.wma

This week’s show featured the ins and outs of pet dermatology from symptoms and causes to the latest in treatments.  Dermatologist Dr. Keith Hnilica from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine joined us in-studio for the entire show to answer calls ranging from scratchy dogs and dandruff to flea resistance.

Show Notes and Resources:

  • Dr. Keith Hnilica from the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tennessee joined us to discuss pet skin problems and allergies.
    • Scratching problems:  Due to the multiple causes of scratching each animal needs to be assessed individually.  Common ailments that may cause pets to itch are due to numerous infections and allergies resulting from food, fleas, pollen, shampoos, etc.  If you and your vet have spent many years trying to diagnose your particular pet’s problems, acquire a referral from your local veterinarian and call (865) 974-VETS for an appointment with a pet dermatologist at the University of Tennessee.  Go to www.utskinvet.org for more information on pet dermatology.
    • Fleas:  Fleas are becoming a prevalent problem in surrounding areas due to many types of fleas developing an immunity to current flea preventatives.  Flea problems and allergies can occur in pets that show little to no signs of fleas.  Though you may not be able to see the fleas, many times you can see little black dots known as flea dirt that they have left behind on your animal’s skin.  Most common forms of flea control such as bombing only kill adult fleas.  In addition to these forms of prevention, pet owners should also consider obtaining insect growth regulators (which prevent fleas from producing eggs and disabling the growth of eggs).  For more information on growth regulators such as Nylar and Precor, visit http://www.pestproducts.com/igr.htm#Methoprene.  Be hesitant to buy over the counter flea products because they are often toxic.  Prescription products such as Frontline, Advantage, and Capstar are well researched and can be obtained with a prescription from your veterinarian.
    • Allergies:  Consistent with allergy management in humans, there is no quick fix for pet allergies.  Steroids can be good for emergency purposes, but should not be used chronically due to the detrimental long term summation effects.  Three injections per year or an oral treatment every other day for 6 months will most likely not have tremendous side effects unless used annually.  Pet owners should keep in mind that steroids only help control symptoms but do not aid in fighting the disease.  Atopica is an alternative to steroids that does not cause side effects.  Find more information on this product at http://www.us.atopica.com/.  There are many ways to help alleviate the pain and stress of allergies for you and your pet such as the products listed above, allergy testing, vaccine therapy, food trials, flea elimination, etc.  Contact your veterinarian for the best method for your pet.
    •  Are you allergic to dogs?  If you have slight allergies to dogs, breeds with slower hair growth and frequent bathing of these breeds aid in reducing allergic reactions.  Also, ask your veterinarian for a shampoo specifically made for removing antigens and house mites.
  • Rescue Society of the Week: Tennessee Valley Golden Retriever Rescue is a non-profit organization that looks to place loyal retrievers in good homes.  For more information on this rescue or to view adoptable retrievers, visit www.tvgrr.com.