Save your pooch from acne attack

LUDHIANA: Humidity levels are at an all-time high. This humidity affects the skin of pets too, making them itch, have rashes, and suffer hair loss. Bugs infection is another common problem pets suffer during the rains. Acne typically happens in big breeds with short coats like Great Dane, Mastiff, Doberman, Boxer and Rottweiler. These breeds are more prone to acne than others, but it can and does occur in all breeds of dogs.According to veterinary doctors of the city, skin problems occur more during the pre-monsoon season, as the skin is more prone to infections during this time.
Dr Anil Kumar, a veterinarian informed: "The cases increase 10 times more in this period. The pet dogs suffering from skin diseases are brought to him every day, and the number will only go up next month when the monsoon begins. He added: "Acne can cause the dog a lot of discomfort and pain. This condition occurs when the oil glands on the dog's face get blocked. You will notice the formation of blackheads and pimples on parts of the face such as the chin, muzzle and lips. These blackheads and pimples become acne, which makes the skin very itchy, crusty and sore."
Dr Ravinder Toor, a veterinarian informed: "The lack of awareness among pet lovers is the main cause for a pet's acne. Dogs with canine acne develop multiple comedones (blackheads) on their chin, lips, and muzzle. Plugs of debris made of natural substances such as keratin and sebum block the hair follicles, causing focal swellings which can rupture to form scabs. This is curable if treated on time.
Dr Toshib Kumar, a veterinarian from the Feroze Gandhi Market, informed: "Acne are pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads that appear along the chin, lips, chest, or genital area. If the area is irritated, then there may be some bleeding or pus that can be expressed from these blemishes. Picking the bumps can actually cause the acne to spread or even cause a more serious infection. The most that you can do is apply a warm cloth to the area to reduce swelling, but the rest should be left to a licensed veterinarian.