CAPS: Yeast is great for bread, not dogs

Dear reader, I just happened to overhear a conversation about dogs that piqued my interest. Apparently, dogs get yeast infections. I was unaware that pups can get that type of malady. Of course, I had to investigate.

Malassezia pachydermatis fungus causes yeast dermatitis or Malassezia dermatitis in dogs. This fungus is normally on the skin but when it goes rogue and grows abnormally, it causes dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin.

Under normal circumstances, these fungi do not cause a problem because the immune system keeps them under control. Opportunistic infections take charge when the immune system is suppressed or skin conditions change.

Many other things can cause yeast infections. One of the most common is allergic dermatitis. Dogs can be allergic to anything from pollen to food. When their skin makes contact with an allergen, it disrupts the balance of yeast and causes an infection.

Certain dog breeds are genetically predisposed to developing yeast infections. These include Cocker Spaniels, Terriers, Poodles, Chihuahuas, and Dachshunds. Yeast infections in dogs are common and are not contagious. Dogs do not get the infection from other dogs.

There are a couple of ways to treat the infection. Topical therapy is good for areas of the skin and paws affected by yeast. Antifungal shampoos, sprays, and ointments are helpful. Systemic therapy treats widespread or severe infections by targeting them from the inside out. A visit to the veterinarian is necessary to get prescription drugs for this approach.

As always, prevention is the best method to avoid infections. Yeast loves moisture! Infections typically affect skin folds and between the toes. Keeping your dog clean and groomed goes a long way to prevent infection and keep it from spreading.

Yeast infections cause a lot of discomfort for your BFF. If you see red, crusty, and flaky skin, you need to intervene with a visit to the veterinarian.

Make yeast the least of your problems!

LOOKING FOR A HOME

We have two handsome one-year-old male puppies. BG and Diego are anxiously waiting to find their forever homes. We also have four Border Collie-mix puppies who are six-months-old and five Lab-mix who are 13-weeks-old. Cat lovers, we have eight Tabby kittens in shades of gray. They are cute!

IN NEED OF

• XXL Kong Extremes for our guests.

• Funds to sustain the shelter our bills are ongoing. Contributions are needed.

• Would you like to foster animals? We need volunteers. Call 775-423-7500 for details.

• Aluminum cans. We will pick up your cans; give us a call at 775-423-7500. You can also drop them off at CAPS.

• Volunteers to walk dogs or play with cats. Call 775-423-7500 for details.

• Bleach and cleaning supplies for our kennels.

SHOUT OUT TO

• Our dedicated staff who work tirelessly to provide a loving environment for our guests. A round of apaws to you!

• All of the faithful volunteers who take the time to play, walk, and socialize our guests. Bow-wow to you!

• Caleb Szymanski, the pastor of Oasis Community Church for providing a place for CAPS. All tails are wagging for you!

COME SEE US

CAPS is open to the public on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

We suggest appointments for adoptions and food pantry.

DON’T FORGET

• October Holiday: National Walk Your Dog Day was Oct. 1. Walk your dog every day!

• Would you like a newsletter? Call 775-423-7500 or email caps@cccom.net.

• CAPS’ mailing address is P.O. Box 5128, Fallon, NV 89407. CAPS’ phone number is 775-423-7500. CAPS’ email address is caps@cccomm.net. Please visit the CAPS website (www.capsnevada.com) and Facebook page (Churchill Animal Protection Society). Be sure to “Like” CAPS on Facebook because we are likeable.

Kathleen Williams-Miller is a CAPS volunteer. Email jkwmil@outlook.com.