Atopic Dermatitis (Atopy)

Atopy, or allergic dermatitis, is one of the most common chronic skin disorders in dogs. It can be a frustrating disease to treat, as there isn’t a cure. The aim is to manage it the best way possible to avoid discomfort to the dog due to excessive itchiness (inflammation) and consequently, secondary skin infections with bacteria and/or yeast.

It is an inherited allergic reaction (over-reaction of the immune system) to environmental allergens (pollen, grass, mold, etc.) that are absorbed across the skin. To make the situation even worse, usually the affected animal may also have a defective skin barrier. Any breed or mix breed dog can develop atopy, but the breeds predisposed to developing it are: Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, West Highland White Terriers and other terriers, and Bulldogs. Usually dogs begin to show signs between one and three years of age.

Dogs affected by atopy will usually display excessive itchiness, in which it will scratch, chew, lick, or rub areas of the body such as their face, paws, and rear end. This can lead to hair loss, reddening and thickening of the skin as well as self-trauma to the skin. The itchiness can be exacerbated in cases the dog develops secondary bacterial/yeast infection or has parasites such as fleas/mites. Therefore, it is important to take a step by step approach towards skin investigation, so that common things like fleas or bacterial infections aren’t overlooked, prior to establishing a diagnosis of atopy.

As previously mentioned, atopy is not cured, but managed, and my goal as a veterinarian is to decrease the dog’s discomfort from the excessive itchiness and improve its quality of life by tailoring a treatment plan that best suits his needs and your ability to administer it to him. Flare ups might happen from time to time, meaning the plan will need to be revised.

Treatment options usually involve supportive care (fatty acids, baths, antihistamines) with the addition of medications like corticosteroids, cyclosporine (Atopica), olacitinib (Apoquel), Cytopoint (CADI-immunomodulatory), and immunotherapy. Many of these treatments work better in combination to provide relief.

If you think your pet might be dealing with atopy don’t hesitate to book a visit with Dr Pat the Vet – call 0423 600 618. The sooner we start treating the better your dog will feel!