The difficulty in detecting a yeast infection in dogs is that
the itching sensation could be due to a number of reasons, yet, it is important
to detect and treat it. In this article we take a closer look at how to detect yeast infection in dogs and a few useful, natural remedies for dog yeast
infection.
HOW TO DETECT DOG YEAST INFECTION
·
Skin Color: You may notice excessive redness or
blotchiness in exposed areas of the skin where there is no fur, for example, on
the stomach and ears.
·
Greasy Skin: Your dog’s skin may seem to be
excessively oily.
·
Scaly Texture: The skin may develop scales or a crusty
texture, which may resemble dandruff.
·
Shakes Head Frequently: Your dog will shake his/her head
incessantly due to discomfort in the ears.
·
Incessant Scratching: Another obvious symptom of yeast
infection in dogs is the tendency to scratch more than usual.
·
Swelling:
You may observe swelling in certain parts of the body, which will seem
warm and tender to the touch.
·
Excessive Licking: Your dog may lick a particular area
repeatedly.
·
Excessive Shedding: Another common symptom of yeast
infection in dogs is the excessive shedding of fur.
·
Drooling: A dog affected with this infection can
start drooling without any apparent reason.
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR DOG YEAST INFECTION
It is a good
idea to avoid the side-effects of antibiotics and steroids by using natural
remedies for dog yeast infection. Here are a few popular ones:
Coconut oil: Coconut oil contains Medium Chain
Triglycerides ((MCTs) which are well-known for their capacity to combat
bacterial, fungal and viral infections. Just add a few drops to your dog’s food
with each meal.
Kefir: This food substance is a derivative of grains and is rich
in vitamins and minerals. It looks like yogurt and is safe to mix into your
dog’s food. Kefir contains 30 varieties of yeast and bacteria.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Due to its anti-bacterial and
anti-fungal properties, apple cider vinegar is an effective way of treating
yeast infection in dogs. Just apply a few drops of diluted apple cider vinegar
to the affected areas.
Pau d’arco: This extract comes from a
South-American tree. It is a great herbal remedy for treating yeast infections.
Oregano Oil: Well-known for its antibiotic
properties, oregano oil also has strong anti-fungal properties. Apply it topically
or add a few drops to your dog’s food.
Acidophilus: This supplement is a probiotic which
restores the natural balance of bacteria in the body, which in turn helps to fight
fungal infections like yeast. If you can’t find acidophilus, simply add some
plain yogurt to your dog’s food.
Epson Salt: If you suspect your dog is suffering
from a yeast infection, a pinch of Epsom salt added to your dog’s drinking
water should take care of the infection.
Baking Soda: If you add a teaspoon of baking soda to
every liter of your dog’s drinking water, it should help to get rid of any
yeast infection that your dog may have.
Turmeric: This vegetable extract has multiple
healing benefits. Mostly found in powdered form, you can sprinkle the powder on
the affected areas of the skin. Alternatively, you can mix turmeric powder with
water to make a paste and apply it to the skin.
A FINAL WORD
Now
that you have a good idea about what yeast infection in dogs is, how to detect
it and how it is caused, you will also have some idea about how to prevent your
pet from getting such infections in the first place. We have also given you
some great natural remedies for dog yeast infection featuring a few good
products.
Just
keep in mind these useful tips and your pet will be a healthy and happy pooch:
·
Maintain hygiene
·
Monitor the diet
·
Bathe your dog regularly
·
Avoid over-exercising
·
Keep your dog away from excessive humidity
·
Ensure your dog is kept dry at all times
·
Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight
Bio: Cindy
Grant is a crazy fan of dogs, cats and other cute in-house pets. She’s also the
founder of NolongerWild.com where
you can read more about pet breeds, training and behavior.
If you would like to submit an article on Views and More please email cindynicoletti2@gmail.com