Ask a vet
Your most pressing questions answered by our expert vet, Dr Carra Walters.
If you’ d like your pet questions answered, send them to editor @ petpals. co. za
Q:
My bulldog often gets sore, red skin in the folds of his face. What can I do to treat it at home, and when should I take him to the vet?
– Taryn, Pretoria
Bulldogs, pugs and other wrinkly breeds are prone to skin fold dermatitis. Close skin contact, reduced airflow and trapped moisture or debris create an environment in which bacteria and yeast can overgrow. Routine cleaning may help prevent problems, but skin that is already sore or red should be assessed by a vet. It’ s best to keep the area clean and dry; constantly applying creams can sometimes make the problem worse. Pay a visit to your veterinarian if your dog’ s skin becomes red, swollen, smelly, oozy, or extremely itchy, as these may indicate significant inflammation or secondary infection requiring treatment. For recurring bulldog skin-fold issues, your vet should also be checking for underlying allergies.
Q:
My Yorkshire Terrier becomes extremely anxious whenever I leave the house. Is this normal for the breed? How do I help ease their separation anxiety?
– Jacqui, Springs
Separation-related distress can occur in any breed and should not be dismissed as normal breed behaviour. Signs of separation anxiety include barking, destructiveness, indoor accidents and pacing when left alone. Gradually desensitise your dog to being alone; don’ t just leave them to“ get used to it”. As this dog is showing extreme distress, a vet’ s assessment is needed. Treatment involves preventing episodes of severe panic, where possible, and gradually teaching the dog to tolerate very short absences without becoming distressed. This should progress at the dog’ s pace. Food puzzles, exercise and routines can be supportive, but they are not treatments for significant separation anxiety by themselves.
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