How to best take care of your pet during the rainy season
The rainy season is upon us again and with it brings a whole lot of good and bad, especially for your pet.
I would like to help you take care of your pet during the rainy season by giving you some preventative measures.
Here are some of the common conditions we see and how you can avoid the unnecessary trip to the vet this season:
MYIASIS
This is parasitic infestation of the body of a live mammal by fly larvae (maggots) that grow inside the host while feeding on its tissue. Although flies are most commonly attracted to open wounds and dirty wet fur, some species (including the most common myiatic flies, the botfly, blowfly) have been known to use the common house fly as a vector (carrier of the eggs)
They lay their eggs on wet, warm surfaces (such as dog/cat fur) and during the larva stage burrow into the skin causing cutaneous myiasis.
They appear as small nodules with a whitish center and can be confused for a boil.
Prevention
This one is easy to avoid, ensure that your dog does not lie in any wet soil or damp, dirty ground. That's where the eggs are.
Also, ensure that you dry your dogs fur after its gotten wet. To avoid creating a conducive environment, in case an infested carrier lands on the dogs fur
2. FUNGAL INFECTIONS
These infections are caused by yeast cells. They can occur anywhere in a dogs skin. Commonly seen in the ear, between toes, armpits and ventral abdomen.
This infection is usually opportunistic. On all animals there is a normal balance of bacteria and fungi on the skin. If an environment is created to promote the growth of either then an infection is seen.
In this case a wet, humid and dark area is where yeast cells grow
Yeast infection signs include;
-Thickened skin ("Elephant skin")
-Hyperpigmentaion (darkening skin)
-Scaly and crusty skin
-Alopecia (losing hair)
-Foul smell
Prevention
Avoid washing your dog on a rainy day (unless you have a dryer or heater)
Ensure that your dogs ears are dry, especially if you have a dog with droopy ears. Wipe them with a clean dry towel in case they have been rained on or gotten wet.
Don't forget to get in between the toes too:)
N.B. Some fungal infections can be contagious to humans and cause 'Ringworm' so be sure to get it checked out and treated at the vet before it spreads to you.
3. HOT SPOTS
Also known as moist dermatitis or moist ezcema. They are seen as a result of fleas, food allergies, mite infestation or bacterial infection. It starts as a small area with alopecia. (loss of fur)
The continuous itching and irritation creates a cycle of inflammation and resulting damage to the skin from the itching leading to the development of the hot spot.
Usually seen at the rump or around the base of the tail
Signs include:
-Severe Itching
-Alopecia
-Wet and reddened area
-Painful on touch
Having wet or moist skin and fur can exacerbate these conditions, causing a wider area to be affected due to increase of bacteria on the skin, leading to a secondary bacterial infection.
This spots can be painful and need immediate veterinary attention. Your pet will most likely need a "cone of shame" or Elizabethan collar during treatment to ensure they do not keep licking and scratching to ensure that the spot dries and heals quicker.
Prevention
Keep your pet free of any external parasites this season and be consistent.
Frontline is the best for keeping fleas and ticks at bay but it has to be re-applied every 3-4 weeks
*Make sure that the dog is not washed 2 days prior and 2 days after application for best results.
Have any lesions checked out by your vet before they get infected
4. RESPIRATORY CONDITIONS
This mostly affects puppies and kittens during the cold wet season but can also affect adult dogs and cats as well.
The wet season can lead to an increase in some bacteria that cause bronchitis and rhinitis in your pet.
It can be likened to the common flu in humans.
In our pets it is seen as
-Discharge from the eyes and nose
-Sneezing
-Loss of appetite
-General dullness
Your pet will need vet care to prevent the infection going into the lower respiratory tract which can lead to more serious conditions such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
Prevention
Ensure your pet gets a boost in vitamins this season to increase their immunity and keep them in good health
If you have puppies ensure they are in a clean, dry, warm environment and that their fur remains dry.
5. WEIGHT GAIN
On so many occasions I have seen dogs gain weight after a long rainy season.
This happens due to reduced exercise (fewer walks and outdoor activity) because of unfavorable weather.
Weight gain, especially in large breed dogs can put a strain on their joints leading to joint complications in the future.
Prevention
Cater your dog/cats diet to their activity level, that way you ensure they are getting the required calories they need.
For example, reduce the number of treats to a minimum if your pet is not fully active.
Visit the shop and get your furry friend something healthy and delicious for them.
Overall, keep your pets fur dry and be on the look out for any lesions or external parasites lurking in their fur.
Stay warm.
Dr. Jeanne Mwakugu