Relieve itchy, irritated skin — with expert treatment for dogs

Dogs can suffer from a variety of skin problems that affect their comfort and quality of life. Here are some of the most common skin issues that dogs experience: 1. Allergic Dermatitis • Environmental Allergies: Reactions to pollen, dust mites, molds, or grass that cause itchy, inflamed skin. • Food Allergies: Adverse reactions to certain proteins or ingredients in food causing skin irritation and gastrointestinal issues. • Flea Allergy Dermatitis: An allergic reaction to flea saliva that causes intense itching, even from a single flea bite. • Contact Allergies: Reactions to certain surfaces, chemicals, or fabrics that come in contact with the skin. 2. Parasitic Skin Conditions • Fleas: These common parasites can cause itching, hair loss, and skin infections from scratching. • Mites: Scabies (sarcoptic mange) and demodex mites can cause severe itching, hair loss, and skin inflammation. • Ticks: These parasites attach to the skin to feed on blood and can cause localized irritation or transmit diseases. 3. Fungal and Bacterial Infections • Hot Spots (Acute Moist Dermatitis): Rapidly developing areas of red, inflamed, and infected skin caused by excessive licking or scratching. • Bacterial Folliculitis: Infection of the hair follicles leading to bumps, sores, and crusting. • Yeast Infections: Commonly affect the ears, paws, and skin folds, causing itching, redness, and a distinct odor. • Ringworm: A contagious fungal infection that causes circular areas of hair loss and skin inflammation. 4. Other Skin Conditions • Seborrhea: A condition causing excessively oily or dry skin with flaking and sometimes an unpleasant odor. • Impetigo: A bacterial infection that causes pus-filled blisters, common in puppies. • Acral Lick Dermatitis: Compulsive licking of a specific area, often due to stress or boredom, creating a persistent sore. • Dandruff: Dry, flaky skin that can be caused by dietary issues, environmental factors, or underlying health problems. Many skin conditions share similar symptoms, which is why proper diagnosis by a veterinarian is essential for effective treatment.

It's important to recognize the signs of skin issues early so you can seek appropriate treatment. Here are common signs that your dog might have a skin problem: • Excessive scratching, licking, or biting at the skin • Red, inflamed areas on the skin • Dry, flaky, or scaly patches • Hair loss or thinning coat • Rashes, bumps, or pimple-like lesions • Hot spots – painful, red, oozing areas of skin • Scabs or crusty skin • Swelling or lumps under the skin • Changes in skin color or texture • Unpleasant odor from the skin or coat • Excessive dandruff or greasy coat • Visible parasites or "flea dirt" (small black specks) • Rubbing face or body against furniture or carpet • Shaking head frequently (if ear skin is affected) • Behavioral changes due to discomfort (irritability, lethargy) If you notice any of these signs persisting for more than a day or two, or if they seem severe, it's time to consult with a veterinarian. Early intervention can prevent skin problems from becoming more serious and difficult to treat.

While many skin conditions require veterinary treatment, there are steps you can take at home to prevent skin problems and help manage minor issues: 1. Regular Grooming and Bathing • Brush your dog regularly to remove dirt, debris, and loose fur • Bathe your dog with gentle, dog-specific shampoos (oatmeal-based for sensitive skin) • Don't over-bathe, as this can strip natural oils and cause dry skin • Check your dog's skin during grooming for any abnormalities 2. Parasite Prevention • Use vet-recommended flea and tick preventatives year-round • Regularly check your dog for signs of parasites, especially after outdoor activities • Keep your home clean and vacuum frequently to remove flea eggs or larvae 3. Nutrition and Hydration • Feed a high-quality, balanced diet with essential fatty acids for skin health • Consider omega-3 supplements if recommended by your veterinarian • Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water • Avoid frequent food changes that could trigger allergies 4. Environmental Management • Reduce exposure to potential allergens (frequent vacuuming, air purifiers) • Use hypoallergenic bedding and wash it regularly • Rinse your dog's paws after walks to remove allergens or irritants • Maintain appropriate humidity levels in your home 5. Stress Reduction • Provide adequate exercise and mental stimulation • Establish consistent routines to minimize anxiety • Address behavioral issues that may lead to excessive licking or chewing For any persistent or severe skin issues, always consult with a veterinarian before attempting home treatments.

At Telavets, we understand that skin issues can be uncomfortable for your dog and concerning for you. Here's how we can help resolve your dog's skin problems: 1. Virtual Dermatology Consultations Our experienced veterinarians can examine your dog's skin via video call, allowing us to see rashes, irritation, or other skin abnormalities. We'll ask about your dog's history, environment, diet, and other factors that might contribute to the skin problem. 2. Accurate Diagnosis Based on the visual examination and your dog's symptoms, we can help identify: • Allergic reactions • Bacterial or fungal infections • Parasitic conditions • Autoimmune disorders • Environmental irritants • Nutritional deficiencies affecting the skin 3. Comprehensive Treatment Plans Once we've identified the likely cause of your dog's skin issues, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan that may include: • Prescription medications (antibiotics, antifungals, steroids, antihistamines) • Medicated shampoos, sprays, or wipes • Dietary recommendations or supplements • Environmental modifications to reduce allergen exposure • Parasite prevention protocols 4. Next-Day Medication Delivery After your consultation, we'll deliver any prescribed medications directly to your door, typically the next day. This means your dog can start feeling better quickly, without you having to make another trip to a pharmacy. 5. Follow-up Care and Monitoring Skin conditions often require ongoing management. We'll schedule follow-up consultations to: • Monitor your dog's response to treatment • Adjust medications or dosages as needed • Address any new or persistent symptoms • Provide advice on long-term management strategies Our goal is to not only treat the immediate skin issue but also to identify and address the underlying cause for lasting relief.

When your dog is suffering from skin issues, Telavets offers advantages that traditional vet clinics can't match: • Convenience: Get expert veterinary advice without the stress of transporting your uncomfortable dog to a clinic or exposing them to other animals. • Speed: No waiting for appointments—schedule a virtual consultation quickly and receive medications as soon as the next day. • Comprehensive Approach: We look at all aspects of your dog's environment, diet, and lifestyle to identify potential triggers for skin problems. • Specialized Knowledge: Our veterinarians have extensive experience diagnosing and treating a wide range of canine skin conditions. • Cost-Effective Care: Virtual consultations often cost less than in-person visits, while providing the same quality of care. • Stress-Free Experience: Many dogs with skin issues are already uncomfortable—a telemedicine appointment means no additional stress from travel or unfamiliar environments. • Ongoing Support: We're available for follow-up consultations and advice throughout your dog's treatment process. • Photo Documentation: Our virtual platform allows us to keep a visual record of your dog's skin condition, making it easier to track improvement over time. With Telavets, you can get expert help for your dog's skin issues without leaving home, ensuring they get the care they need quickly and comfortably.