Canine Yeast Infection | Dog Yeast Infection
Dog yeast infections are as prevalent in dogs as they are to their human counter parts. Yeast, aka Candida Albicans, live within the intestinal tract of both dogs and people. The intestinal track hosts both good and bad bacteria along with amounts of yeast. “Good” bacteria and a healthy immune system are what keeps Candida Albicans and the pathogenic organisms balanced and in check.
Yeast infections develop when bad bacteria rapidly grow, usually as the result of a lowered or weakened immune system which can be caused by an injury such as cuts or scratches that become infected, recent sickness or advanced aging and the natural degradation of the body. All dogs and humans have a natural balance of yeast and bacteria in our bodies; however when things get out of balance, then yeast has a chance to proliferate developing into disease and causing discomfort to your pet. Some yeast infections in dogs are caused by severe allergies and since both a lowered immune system and allergies can cause itching and discomfort, chronic yeast infections are often misdiagnosed as an allergy in dogs.
Many canine yeast problems create excessive oil in the skin which can lead to other problems. Sebaceous cysts (follicular cysts) develop from glands that produce an oily substance in the hair follicles that eventually get clogged. Although these cysts aren’t very pretty, they are generally harmless.
The main cause of yeast infections, such as Candida Albicans, comes from grain-based foods, prescription drugs, lawn and household chemicals and poisons. Any cooked foods that are sold in a can or bag can be compromised by exposure to moisture and spoilage creating a scenario for yeast infections. Because symptoms of Canine yeast infections can be attributed to a many other causes, dog yeast infections are one of the most under-diagnosed and mis-diagnosed illnesses in the veterinary field.
By performing a thorough assessment you can find out if your dog has an actual yeast contagion or another form of infection typical of dogs. For instance, make sure before you treat for yeast infection that you look carefully into the inside of your dogs ears, a common location of yeast, as there could be grass, matted hair, or other items lodged into the ear canal that can cause distress and infectivity. If there’s something lodged in the ear canal it is not advised for you to attempt to remove this yourself as the ear canal can be extra sensitive and any tear could cause infection, a breeding ground for yeast. If your dog is an outdoor pet, then it is likely that yeast infections may be caused by ear mites, which can lead to a build up of bacteria, allowing for yeast to flourish.
Take your pet to the doctor immediately, as lodged items, ear mite bites or scratched areas that become exposed can cause severe discomfort, loss of balance and can further damage skin and the ear itself. Remember that yeast needs moist, dark places in order to flourish.
