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Kristen Via Facebook

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Hey there Kristen!  I will do my best to answer this question, but skin problems can be complicated enough that no advice I can offer will replace a consultation by your veterinarian or a veterinary dermatologist.

While many of us are drawn to the unique look and great personality of bulldogs, the breed certainly has some well-known issues with skin conditions.  Many bulldogs experience allergies in their lifetime that often manifest as skin disease.  As a result, secondary yeast infections are common.  Having all of those wrinkles certainly does not help as they are perfect locations for the yeast to thrive!  Therefore, my primary recommendation would make every attempt to get the yeast problem as well controlled as possible and to diagnose and treat the underlying problem if possible.  Your veterinarian should be able to help you.  Sometimes a referral to a dermatologist is required in more difficult cases.  There are products specifically designed to clean areas affected by yeast such as medicated wipes and enzymatic solutions.  Many bulldog owners use MalAcetic wipes.  Ask your veterinarian if these products are right for you.  Sometimes changes in diet can greatly improve skin condition but you should always consult your veterinarian before making any dramatic diet change.

Q:

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The simple answer to your question is ‘yes’, there can be a medical reason but pica can also be a strictly behavioral issue.  Therefore, my first recommendation would be to consult with your regular veterinarian to look into a possible underlying medical problem. 

Medical causes can include low levels of pancreatic digestive enzymes, excess intestinal bacteria, an enlarged esophagus, intestinal parasitism, hormonal diseases, blood disorders and nervous system disorders.  Behavioral causes can include compulsive disorders, anxiety or attention-seeking.  Once medical causes have been sufficiently rule-out, then efforts can be made toward trying to curb the behavior itself lest your dog find herself in a situation where surgery may be required to remove an ingested object.  My biggest piece of advice would be to purchase ‘busy’ toys for her.  These include toys that your dog has to work at and play with to obtain food or treats placed within (e.g. Buster Cube). 

Many dogs with pica benefit from having all of their meals provided through such toys.  Additional stimulation through regular behavior exercises or play with the owner may also help if it is simply an attention-getting behavior.  You and your pet will both enjoy the extra time spent together performing basic recall exercises or a game of fetch (although I would not recommend using a stick here..for obvious reasons).  If you are getting frustrated, comfortable basket muzzles are available which will allow your dog to enjoy free exercise outdoors without being able to pick up foreign objects while still being able to open her mouths normally and pant to her heart’s content.  There is nothing wrong with a basket muzzle and most dogs tolerate them very well.  Veterinary behaviorists are available for referral for difficult behavioral problems.

Thank you for the question and I hope that you can help your dog with her cravings!

Thank you for the question, Willimine!  This is a question commonly asked in the veterinary exam room yet not often answered to the satisfaction of many pet owners.

Pets have over the years become increasingly integrated into the lives of their owners that they are now considered to be members of the family.  This change in attitude toward pets has led to increased demand by pet owners that their pets receive the same level of medical care as human family members.  Veterinary education and veterinary facilities reflect this shift in that more advanced medical and surgical techniques have been developed and advances have been made in equipment available to and required by veterinarians to provide these services.  A veterinary surgical suite is now similarly equipped to those found in human facilities.  These higher standards combined with staffing requirements, the cost of maintaining a veterinary facility and the equipment and inventory therein, cost of education, and other factors all lead to the price you are presented with on estimates.  Your veterinary clinic should always be able to explain the value you are getting for the price you are paying.  Measures such as pre-anesthetic screening, intravenous fluids, current anesthetic protocols, monitoring devices used during surgery, careful pain management and recovery, and post-operative care may be included in spay and neuter prices and all lead to a much safer and more comfortable experience for both you and your pet.  Subsidized spay/neuter clinics may be available in some areas.

It’s always a good idea to ask for details on what is included in the cost, whether high or low, and make sure you are comfortable with the answer you receive before deciding to have your furry family member spayed or neutered.  Asking questions should always be welcomed.  As is the case here, thanks for the question!

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