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This Week's Dog-Centric News and Tips are in: 

• 6 of the Most Common Dog Skin Conditions

• Can Humans Catch Worms from Dogs? & Natural Deworming Methods

• Thread: Cockapoo Grooming

• Video: This is how to get your revenge on the vacuum for scaring your dog

Bark Bulletin of the Week

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DOG NEWS

Fitness App Strava Partners With Fi Collar To Track Dog's Fitness

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Fitness app Strava announced a partnership with Fi Smart Dog Collar. Key points include:

• Integration allows dog owners to track their pet's fitness on Strava

• Fi Collar data automatically syncs with Strava, including:

  • Steps taken

  • Distance traveled

  • Rankings among other dogs on Fi

Additional features of the Fi Smart Dog Collar:

• GPS tracking

• Activity monitoring

• Sleep pattern tracking

• Behavior monitoring

To celebrate the partnership:

• Strava and Fi featured employees' dogs in a community post

• They're giving away 100 free limited edition Fi x Strava collars

This integration aims to provide a seamless experience for tracking both human and canine fitness activities.

DOG BEHAVIOUR

6 of the Most Common Dog Skin Conditions

Dog skin conditions are among the top health concerns for canines, often leading to veterinary visits.

This summary covers six of the most common skin problems in dogs, their symptoms, and treatment options.

General Signs and Symptoms of Dog Skin Problems

Before diving into specific conditions, it's important to recognize general signs of skin issues in dogs:

• Constant itching and licking

• Inflammation

• Skin redness or discoloration

• Hair loss or bald patches

• Rashes or bumps

• Scabs

• Dry, flaky skin

• Scaly patches on skin

• Hot spots

1. Skin Allergies

Canine atopic dermatitis, or skin allergies, is one of the most common skin conditions in dogs. It typically appears on the dog's feet, armpits, chest, ears, and stomach.

Causes: Environmental factors (pollen, mildew) or food allergies (beef, eggs, dairy, wheat).

Breeds most prone: Shih Tzu, Golden Retriever, Scottish Terrier, Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Boston Terrier, Dalmatian.

Treatment:

• Identify and reduce exposure to allergens

• Medication prescribed by a vet

• Use of mild, hypoallergenic shampoos

2. Fleas and Ticks

These external parasites cause excessive licking and scratching and can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated.

Breeds most prone: All breeds can be affected, but dogs with longer coats are more susceptible. Gundogs, terriers, and pastoral breeds are more prone to tick infestations.

Treatment:

• Thorough cleaning of the home

• Keeping dogs indoors during flea season

• Medication (consult with a vet first)

• Use of flea combs and tweezers

3. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is a common skin infection where hair follicles become inflamed due to bacteria on the dog's skin.

Symptoms: Sores, lumps, and scabs on the skin.

Breeds most prone: No specific breed predisposition, but it's easier to detect in short-haired breeds.

Treatment:

• Topical therapy (antibacterial shampoos and creams)

• Oral medication (antibiotics and pain killers if necessary)

• Treatment of underlying diseases if present

4. Ringworm

Despite its name, ringworm is a fungal infection that's highly contagious to dogs, cats, and humans.

Symptoms: Red, inflamed, circular patches, usually on the head, paws, ears, and front legs.

Breeds most prone: Boston Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier, Russell Terrier.

Treatment:

• Quarantine the affected dog

• Oral medication

• Topical therapy (creams, ointments, shampoos)

5. Mange

Mange is caused by mites living on a dog's hair and skin. There are two types: demodectic (usually affects puppies, not very contagious) and sarcoptic (can affect any dog, highly contagious).

Symptoms: Intense itching, inflammation, hair loss, and potentially bald spots, scabbing, and sores.

Breeds most prone:

• Demodectic: Dalmatian, American Bulldog, American Pit Bull Terrier, Old English Sheepdog, Shar Pei

• Sarcoptic: British Bulldog, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Shar-Pei, Bordeaux Mastiff, Pug, French Bulldog, Boxer, Shih Tzu, Border Terrier

Treatment:

• Topical medication

• Oral medication

• Dips (lime-sulfur or amitraz, though less common now)

6. Pyoderma (Impetigo)

Pyoderma is mostly caused by bacterial infections but can also result from other skin conditions or diseases.

Symptoms: Small, raised, red, and pus-filled blisters, often on the dog's belly.

Breeds most prone: Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bulldog, Boxer, Shar-Pei. It's also more common in puppies.

Treatment:

• Topical therapy for mild cases

• Antibiotic therapy (usually oral antibiotics for 3-4 weeks)

• Treatment of underlying diseases if present

In conclusion, maintaining your dog's skin and coat health is crucial. If you notice any symptoms of these skin conditions, it's best to consult with a veterinarian promptly. Early detection and proper treatment can prevent discomfort and more serious health issues for your furry friend.

Source: TheDogingtonPost

Playful Picks

1. This is how to get your revenge on the vacuum for scaring your dog

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My dog hates vacuums so we jump it

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Can Humans Catch Worms from Dogs? & Natural Deworming Methods

Worm infestations in dogs are a common concern for pet owners, not just for their furry friend’s health, but also due to the potential risk of transmission to humans.

While not frequent, it is possible for humans, especially children, to catch certain types of worms from dogs.

Understanding these risks and knowing how to prevent and treat worm infestations is crucial for maintaining the health of both your pet and your family.

Types of Worms and Transmission to Humans

1. Roundworms

   • Most common parasites in dogs' digestive systems

   • Spread through ingestion of roundworm eggs from contaminated soil or sand

   • Can cause Visceral Larva Migrans (VLM) or Toxocariasis in humans

   • Eggs can survive in soil for up to seven years

   • Symptoms in humans may include fever, cough, enlarged liver, and in severe cases, vision problems

Roundworm infections primarily affect children aged 2-4 years who play in contaminated areas.

The parasites can affect various organs, including the liver, lungs, heart, brain, and eyes.

It's important to note that direct contact with an infected animal doesn't usually result in transmission; the eggs need to be in the environment for about two weeks to become infective.

2. Hookworms

   • Common in dogs, also found in cats, especially in tropical and subtropical areas

   • Transmit through skin penetration or ingestion of contaminated soil

   • Can cause cutaneous larva migrans or "creeping eruption" in humans

   • Symptoms include an itchy, snake-like rash with blisters

   • Humans can be infected through the soles of their feet or buttocks when walking barefoot or sitting in infected areas

3. Ringworm

   • Actually a fungus called Dermatophytes, not a worm

   • Highly contagious between animals and humans

   • Causes circular lesions on the skin

   • Can spread from cats, dogs, and other animals to humans and vice versa

4. Tapeworms

   • Dipylidium Caninum is the most common tapeworm in dogs and cats

   • Rarely infect humans

   • Requires ingestion of an infected flea for transmission

   • Pets often ingest fleas while grooming, making them more susceptible

5. Heartworms

   • Not transmissible to humans

   • Spread by mosquitoes, not directly from dogs or cats

   • Humans are not natural hosts for heartworms

Natural Deworming Methods for Dogs

Many pet owners are turning to natural and homeopathic methods to deal with worm infestations. These methods can be effective and may reduce exposure to chemical pesticides found in conventional dewormers. Here are some options:

1. Homeopathic combination: Gaertner Bach, Abies Can., Abro., and Cina in 3CH potency

   • Used successfully in large facilities and local barns for various animals, including dogs, cats, and horses

2. Diet: A healthy, raw diet can prevent parasitic infestations by strengthening the dog's immune system.

   • Raw food provides species-specific nutrition

   • A healthy animal is less likely to become a host to parasites

3. Natural remedies:

   • Garlic: 1 clove per 30lb dog, mixed into raw food (contraindicated for dogs on blood thinners)

   • Grapefruit Seed Extract: 5-10 drops per 10lbs of dog weight

   • Food grade Diatomaceous Earth: Dosage varies by dog size (Small Dogs ½ tsp, Medium Dogs under 50 lbs 2 tsp, Large Dogs more than 50 lbs 1tbsp)

   • Black Walnut Hulls: 1 drop per day for 2-3 weeks max

   • Ground Pumpkin Seeds or oil: 1/4 tsp per 10lbs of dog weight

   • Ground Cloves: Use ¼ clove for small dog, ½ clove for medium dog, or 1 clove for a large dog per day over a two-week span

   • Goldenseal: Start with 1-3 drops per day mixed in their food

It's important to note that while these natural methods can be effective, severe infestations may require conventional deworming treatments. Always consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment plans.

Recognizing Worm Infestations in Dogs

Watch for these symptoms in your dog:

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Weight loss or voracious appetite without weight gain

• Anemia (low red blood cell count)

• Scooting on carpet or grass

• Mild to severe coughing

• Scratching at the base of the tail

• Visible worms in feces or vomit

• Dull coat or hair loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Prevention Tips

1. Teach children to wash hands before eating and after playing outdoors

2. Regularly treat pets for worms as recommended by your veterinarian

3. Keep children from playing in potentially contaminated soil or sandboxes

4. Maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle for your pet

5. Limit exposure to chemical-based products, including shampoos, cleaning products, and toys

6. Address other health issues holistically

7. Clean up pet waste promptly, especially in areas where children play

8. Consider using natural flea prevention methods, as fleas can transmit certain types of worms

9. Regular veterinary check-ups to catch and treat infestations early

By taking a comprehensive approach to your dog's health and practicing good hygiene, you can significantly reduce the risk of worm infestations and transmission.

Remember, a healthy dog is less likely to become a host to parasites, benefiting both your pet and your family. While the risk of catching worms from dogs exists, it can be effectively managed with proper care and attention to both pet and environmental hygiene.

Source: TheDogingtonPost

Quiz Answers

A fully grown, adult dog has 42 permanent teeth. However, puppies usually have 28 teeth.

That’s it for this edition of Dog Forum’s newsletter.

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