How to Prevent Dog Yeast Infections

Did you know your dog is covered in tiny organisms?  Like all animals, even us, our dogs have natural microflora living on their bodies as well as bacteria--some good, some, not so much. If everything is in order and balanced, microflora and good bacteria live harmoniously on your dog, and are even beneficial, breaking down debris and harmful bacteria. However, if your dog's system becomes compromised or overwhelmed and bacteria and yeast organisms multiply, your dog can develop a yeast infection, an overgrowth of yeast organisms. The result is red, inflamed, smelly, itchy skin. 

Yeast infections can be a result of health conditions such as metabolic disorders, antibiotic use, or immune system disorder, or can be a result of dietary imbalances, or poor grooming. Taking your dog to a veterinarian to address any health concerns that might contribute to yeast infections is an important first step to preventing yeast infections. There are also grooming techniques and general daily care you can implement to help prevent yeast infections from taking hold in your dog.

When your dog gets a yeast infection he'll be extremely uncomfortable. They itch! Your dog will respond by scratching, licking and biting, which unfortunatley, will make the yeast infection quite a bit worse. Once a yeast infection has taken hold, medication may be required to treat it. However, several routine steps can be taken to prevent yeast infections, that are non-invasive and most dogs readily adapt to, including daily brushing and inspections and regular bathing.

• Be sure to seek veterinary advice if your dog is experiencing repeated yeast infections as medical conditions may be responsible.
  
• When rinsing with vinegar, bathing, or applying treatments, avoid the eyes, nose, and mouth.
  
• Use caution when introducing anti-fungal supplements to your dog's diet. Consult a holistic veterinarian or pharmacist. Add supplements in small amounts to see how your dog reacts.
  
• Avoid over-bathing, which can remove beneficial bacteria and yeast.
  
• Avoid allowing your dog to swim in lakes and ponds with water that may contain microorganisms that will cause an imbalance in microflora on your dog’s body.
  
• Avoid parasitic infections or bacterial infections, which can contribute to yeast infection development.
  
• When using antibiotics, ensure they are necessary and keep an eye out for yeast infections, as antibiotics can contribute to an imbalance in microflora in and on your dog.