OVERVIEW
Bathing/washing/rinsing which mechanically and physically removes allergens and pathogens from the skin is currently being reconsidered as an undervalued, underutilized but effective and non invasive way to manage a variety of dermatological problems. Until recently, the environmental allergens route of entry has been assumed to be through inhalation. But strong evidence in both people and dogs now suggests that percutaneous/skin absorption is an important route of entry. In dogs, it is most likely the primary route. From here. See also The Killer App for Canine Itching and Skin Infections
It's important however to ensure the right shampoo is used, that the shampoo is completely rinsed off to prevent dryness or an appropriate veterinary prescribed shampoo is prescribed that has additional moisturizing ingredients included. See Shampoos below for a review of active ingredients and techniques
A holistic/integrative view from Dr Karen Becker DVM
SHAMPOOS
Dog Shampoos: The Function of Common Ingredients
The Art of Shampoos in Veterinary Dermatology - and overview of active ingredients in prescription shampoos.
Veterinary Shampoo Components
Shampoo Therapy In Veterinary Dermatology
SHAMPOOING TECHNIQUE
Prediluting the shampoo will facilitate it being rinsed from the coat and minimize the potential for irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. Depending on the shampoo, the concentration of shampoo to water will vary between 1:3 and 1:4. If possible, the medicated shampoo should be allowed to have a contact time of 10 min with the skin and then rinsed thoroughly from the coat. Principles of Topical Therapy Merck
Preshampooing preparations include placing cotton balls in the ear canals and using a lubricant such as Akwa Tears (Akorn, Inc., Abita Springs, Louisiana 70420) in the eyes. Any shampoo that has been retained within the eye lubricant can be quickly removed by flushing the eyes with AK-Rinse (Akorn, Inc.) at the completion of the bath. The mechanical process of shampooing is beneficial in that it helps to remove crusts, scales, dirt, organisms, and residual medication. All to often, however, the underside of the pet, which is frequently the most severely affected area , is neglected. Shampooing the entire pet and rinsing thoroughly will provide optimal results and decrease the irritating effects shampooing can have. From: Shampoo Therapy in Dogs and Cats by Anthony A. Yu, BSc, DVM
MEDICATED SHAMPOO
Medicated shampoos will be prescribed by your vet that fit the type of pathogen or problem- a cytology will identify if it is a staph or yeast problem or both. For example Oxydex for staph infections (particularly if there is crusting), Malaket which has an antimicrobial (for staph) and antifungal for yeast infections. A newer range of medicated shampoos is Douxo which may have additional moisturizing properties that protect the skin from irritation and loss of moisture.
NON MEDICATED SHAMPOO
If a medicated shampoo is not required choose a mild, hypoallergenic one like Earthbath as dogs have more sensitive skins than ours.
AVOID
Shampoos with Triclosan like Microtek
