Because skin issues can be the result of an autoimmune response or a suppressed immune system, you can’t underestimate the importance of a strong immune system. That’s why Tyson takes immune support supplements and why I think he improved so quickly. A healthy immune system is your dog’s first line of defense in fighting any illness. If your dog’s immune system is compromised and its defenses are down, it can lead to a variety of different health issues.
First signs your dog’s immune system is broken or breaking down. Left unchecked, these symptoms can lead to other more serious issues:
- Dry Flaking Skin
- Thinning Coat
- Excessive Foot Licking
- Hot Spots
- Chronic Diarrhea
- Hyperactivity
- Inability to gain weight
- Mood Swings
Allergies and food intolerances are two of the potential health issues that can result when your dog’s immune system is out of balance.
Yeast – Can result from several different causes. Dogs with allergies often itch and scratch their way to yeast infections and the common medications used to treat skin problems such as steroids and antibiotics encourage yeast growth.
Antibiotics – They will temporarily treat your dog’s symptoms, but they will not determine what is causing the issue nor will they eliminate the problem.
Also keep in mind, you can’t feed kibble and do a charcoal bath and think the problem is going to go away. All these things work hand in hand if you want to see optimal results. It takes time it took us at least three weeks to see real results but boy were they life changing and that kept my motivation going to keep on this path to natural healing. You can get off Apoquel and Atopica. Allergy issues are mostly related to what you’re feeding if you’re doing kibble and can also be a result of Vacinnossis. Do your homework and research. It took me 7 years, a lot of $$$ and a lot of pain for Tyson to realize what the vets tell you isn’t always your best option.
My lab has been on Honest Kitchen for 5 months. But is now getting hot spots on his cheeks and losing small patches of hair?
Might be time to consider changing to a raw diet. Usually hot spots and hair/skin issues are a result of the immune system breaking down, allergins, food etc.