Skin and Coat

Bacterial skin infections in dogs often result from an underlying immune disorder. The most common predisposing causes include allergies (inhalant/contact, food, and/or flea bite). Hormonal conditions such as hypothyroidism or Cushing's Disease of the adrenal gland, and diseases such as liver disease, kidney disease, and even cancer may predispose many dogs to bacterial skin infections. Symptoms of skin infections (also known as pyoderma) include scaling, crustiness, hair loss, and the development of...

Relieve your pet's irritating itchHot spots are infected sores caused by bacteria being scratched into the skin. Use a product with ingredients that will help to quickly soothe your pet's skin and relieve itching.Use a monthly flea preventativeHot spots are commonly caused by an allergic reaction to flea saliva. Using a flea preventative can help prevent flea dermatitis by killing fleas.Allow hot...

Unlike cats, dogs need our help to keep clean and fresh-smelling. In fact, most dogs seem to revel in being stinky! But if you put off bathing your dog, you'll eventually notice the characteristic “dirty dog” smell. According to the ASPCA, you should bathe your dog at least every 3 months. Of course, you may need to do so more often, especially...

When it’s so hot you could fry an egg on the sidewalk, your dog’s paws can’t stand the heat. Though those paw pads may seem rough and thick, they’re vulnerable to blisters, cracks, and serious burns when exposed to hot surfaces.  How Hot Is Too Hot For Your Dog’s Paws? Generally, light-colored surfaces reflect heat, while dark surfaces like asphalt and blacktop...

Relieve your pet's itchingUse topical sprays and a moisturizing shampoo to quickly relieve redness, inflammation, and itching of the skin Protect against fleas and the diseases they may carryEven though fleas may not be the current cause of your pet's itching, it's always best to protect your dog or cat from these parasites. Plus, some flea medications also protect against other insects...

Not only can hairballs get stuck in your cat's throat, but they can also become stuck in the small intestine blocking the digestive tract. In severe cases of blockage, your cat could require surgery to have the hair removed. But don't worry! You can help reduce your cat's risk by following these simple steps on removing existing hairballs and preventing hairballs from...