Dog Yeast Infection Treatment at Home

Yeast infections are a relatively common problem among dogs, particularly in breeds that have many folds of skin or other predisposing factors. Dog yeast infection treatment is necessary to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body or developing into a more serious condition. Without prompt treatment, the infection may persist on your pet's body and may cause a variety of painful and harmful effects. There are a variety of treatment methods that you can utilize at home to help remedy your pet's yeast infection and return him to normal health.

Yeast infections are most commonly found in moist areas of the skin, such as the genitals, rectum, ears, nose and mouth. In some cases yeast infections present symptoms similar to those of other skin infections or allergic reactions, so a proper diagnosis is necessary in order to determine the cause of your pet's symptoms. Be on the lookout for signs of skin irritation and redness as well as excessive scratching. Abnormal bleeding and discharge may occur as well.

Keeping Your Pet Clean

One of the best ways to help to treat a yeast infection and also to prevent the occurrence of this condition is to wash your pet regularly. Use a shampoo containing sulfur or other anti-yeast ingredients, and make sure to dry your pet thoroughly after each bath in order to ensure that the bacteria which causes the infection does not have any warm and moist parts of the body on which to attach.

Bathe your pet about once per week or two if he does not have an infection. If he does have a yeast infection, consider bathing him more frequently if you have the time.

Address the Infection Directly

Baking soda and apple vinegar are two household products that are helpful at cleaning and treating yeast infections. Baking soda can be used to address itchy skin and other irritated spots. Mix in two spoonfulls of baking soda with a gallon of warm water and stir the water until the soda dissolves completely. Using a sponge or rag, rub the solution onto your dog's skin at the site of any irritation.

Apple vinegar can be applied to the site of the infection directly, although you should always avoid coming into contact with any open sores or wounds. Make a diluted vinegar solution by mixing in a small amount of apple vinegar with warm water and stirring. Treat your pet's yeast infection site with the solution several times per day by gently rubbing the solution onto his skin with a rag or towel. Keep in mind that your pet's skin will likely be sensitive at the site of the infection, so take precautions to calm your pet and prevent injury or further discomfort.

Between these treatment methods, most pet owners find that they are able to keep their dog's yeast infection under control. However, if your pet's infection proves unresponsive to these techniques, do not hesitate to contact a veterinarian for further advice.

 

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