If your pet suffers from seborrheic dermatitis, shampoo may be a good way to help treat his condition. This medical problem results from one or more of a variety of different factors, including the climate, the existing shampoo and hygiene schedule, and potentially even from parasites like skin mites. Fortunately, medicated shampoos are available to help address the itchy, flaky skin that dog's suffering from seborrheic dermatitis frequently have. Read on for a brief overview of this shampoo and how to use it to address your dog's skin condition.
Seborrheic Dermatitis Shampoo Overview
The best seborrheic dermatitis shampoos for dogs typically contain benzoyl peroxide. This active ingredient helps to hydrate your pet's skin and eliminate the other symptoms of this type of dermatitis. It's important that a good medicated dermatitis shampoo not contain any dyes, fragrances, or other artificial ingredients. In some cases, it is these very ingredients in standard types of shampoo which bring about an allergic reaction in dogs that ends up resulting in seborrheic dermatitis.
Obtaining the Shampoo
Because most seborrheic dermatitis shampoos for dogs are medicated, you'll need a vet's prescription in order to get them. This means that you should take your dog in to the vet in order to have him properly diagnosed. Doing this is a good idea anyway, as it will confirm that your pet is suffering from seborrheic dermatitis and not another related condition. Your vet will recommend a particular type of shampoo based on your pet's medical history and the severity and exact type of his condition.
Using the Shampoo
Most of these shampoos are designed to be used about once per week for an extended period of time until the symptoms of the seborrheic dermatitis have been resolved. When you use the shampoo, be sure that you follow the directions on the label of the medicine, as well as any other directions that your vet may have provided you with as well. Be careful not to use too much or too little of the shampoo, and avoid getting it in your pet's eyes, mouth or open sores. If your pet has injuries or open wounds, consult with your vet about how to best use this medicine.
Most people begin to see some results and lessening of symptoms in their pets with one or two baths using this medicated shampoo. Make sure to check in with your vet as you continue to bathe your pet with the medicated seborrheic dermatitis shampoo. If your pet suffers from any unusual or allergic reactions, you may need to find him another type of medicine to use. Additionally, if the medicine that you use doesn't seem to have the beneficial effect that it should, you'll need to confirm that it's working properly and that you're using the shampoo in the right way as well.
If you have any other questions about seborrheic dermatitis in dogs and its treatment, ask your vet.