Question:
We have a yellow Lab who loves to swim. We have just figured out that swimming is causing him to itch and have crawly skin, even after one short swim. He seems miserable -- even walking around causes him discomfort, as he always looks as if he wants to scratch. We always rinse him off after swimming, and it doesn't seem to matter where he swims -- in a lake or river. He is fed Blue Buffalo holistic food along with homemade that closely follows your recipe. He also gets on omega-3 capsule every day. Is there anything you could recommend that would help? We were thinking maybe a topical treatment of some sort. Swimming is one of his favorite things. We do a lot of boating, and he is always with us. We would hate to have to keep him out of the water.
P.H., Minneapolis, MN Oct 04, 2009
Answer:
Some dogs develop an allergic skin condition associated with outdoor swimming that could be a hypersensitivity to algae or other water-borne organisms. In some cases, a skin fungus is involved that triggers histamine release soon after the dog's skin becomes wet. I would increase his omega-3 intake to a tablespoon daily of good-quality fish oil (like Nordic Naturals) available in liquid form, rather than capsules. Try a human shampoo like Selsun Blue (medicated) or other medicated shampoos from your veterinarian. Also ask for a prescription of antihistamine pills that will help subdue your dog's skin hypersensitivity. Give this an hour before swimming. After a swim, hose your dog down well with clean water and dry him thoroughly.
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