Psoriasis treatment in dogs is necessary since it prevents further complications of the disease. Left untreated, psoriasis will cause severe itchiness and open skin to infections. Therefore, whenever you spot any type of abnormal appearance of your dog’s skin, it is best to address your veterinarian and have your pet diagnosed and treated.
Symptoms of Dog Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition which develops in dogs with a weakened immune system. It is caused by the accelerated dividing process of the T-cells (an immune system produced cell). When T-cells divide within days, not months as they normally do, they form scales on the skin surface. Red scaly plaques are the main sign of psoriasis. Allergic reactions to food or other substances can also cause scaling and dandruff which can also point to psoriasis.
Sometimes the symptoms of psoriasis can be mistaken for those of eczema or seborrhoeic dermatitis. Therefore it is recommended to go for a veterinarian checkup and have your dog diagnosed correctly.
Dog Psoriasis Treatment Options
The treatment for psoriasis includes remedies for the symptoms which manifest on the skin surface, but will also focus on building a strong immune system.
There are several solutions on the market which help with dog psoriasis: ointments, shampoos and lotions. Most of them are based either on coal tar or on sulfur.
Coal tar is also used in humans and sulfur is good due to its keratolytic properties.
Potassium permanganate applications or baths are also helpful and cost effective. Potassium permanganate is a disinfectant and you should consult your veterinarian regarding the appropriate concentration for baths or applications.
Omega-6 fatty acids found in evening primrose oil is efficient against psoriasis.
The main active substance in aspirin, salicylic acid, can also be administered orally or locally and will help cure the skin.
Moisturizing the dog’s skin helps with the disease and the itchiness. It is recommended that you do everything possible to prevent your dog from scratching.
Strengthening the Immune System
Given that psoriasis develops in dogs with weak immune system, it is recommended to consolidate it in order to help with the treatment and prevent reoccurrence.
You can resort to nutritional supplements, nutrients or herbal remedies which stimulate the dog’s immune system. Omega fatty acids, vitamin C and zinc are essential for a strong immune system.
Give your dog high quality food and closely monitor his diet. Low carbohydrates food is good for dogs with skin problems. Sometimes commercial food contains too many additives which are detrimental to the dog’s immune system.
Give your dog food which is rich in fiber and whole grains.
Avoid food which contains:
- by-products
- flour (wheat, rice)
- gluten (wheat, corn)
- cornmeal
- preservatives (Ethoxyquin, BHT, BHA)
Shark cartilage has been proven to be very efficient in consolidating the immune system and fighting psoriasis in dogs.
Sun Exposure
The UVB sunlight is also a good method to help treat psoriasis. Sunlight destroys activated T-cells in the skin. Daily sunlight exposure is recommended in dogs with psoriasis.