Contact dermatitis in dogs

Part 2 on dog allergies will cover contact dermatitis. It is the least common allergy in dogs and the easiest to cure. Dogs can suffer from two forms of contact dermatitis:
Allergic Contact Dermatitis occurs when a dog's skin over-reacts to specific allergens in the environment, such as carpet detergents and deodorizers, waxes, chemicals from dyes, rubber, wool, metals, certain antibiotics or lotions applied to the skin, and grass and weeds. It only affects dogs with a hypersensitivity to the substance and takes repeated exposure to the substance before it develops, usually after 2 years of age.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis occurs when a dog's skin is exposed to irritating chemicals such as salt from the street, or poison ivy sap. It will affect every dog that is exposed to the irritant, and usually happens when curious young dogs are exploring.
Symptoms of both are lesions on skin without much hair, such as the abdomen, muzzle, lips and paws. It will be very red and itchy, with small bumps or blisters, and with irritant contact dermatitis ulcers may also appear.
Primary treatment of both types of contact dermatitis is to remove your dog's exposure to the allergen. If that is not possible, fatty acid supplements, anti-histamines, biotin, and topical shampoos can be used to control the itching. Prednisone or corticosteroids are often prescribed. Also use glass or stainless steel food and water bowls, hypoallergenic detergent when washing pet bedding, hypoallergenic shampoos to remove allergens, and restrict walking to sidewalks and avoid the grass. Only Natural Pet Store (link at the left) has a full line of hypoallergenic shampoos, chemical-free flea products and food supplements for help with allergies.

The symptoms can be the same as a food allergy, so I would recommend you also change your dog's food to an all-natural formula or raw food diet in case it is being caused by the ingredients in your commercial dog food. For more information on food allergies, see my post from October 22nd below.