“Dear Dr. Kraemer, Sophie. 🐶 She’s been experiencing intense itching and discomfort, especially in response to environmental factors.
Sophie frequently scratches, bites at her paws, and there are visible red patches on her skin. I’m unsure of the best approach for relief.
I’ve adjusted her diet, based on your expertise, what diagnostic steps should we consider, and are there targeted treatments oI can explore?Warm regards, [Jamie T.& “Sophie the Frenchie] #SophieTheFrenchie #AtopicItchingAllergy” 💖
Bulldog and Fr. Bulldog Itching Atopic Allergy Introduction
Allergic Atopic Itch Dermatitis is the most common allergy seen in bulldogs. it is an inflammatory skin condition caused by environmental allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or certain foods. It’s similar to allergies in humans and is characterized by itching, redness, and skin irritation.
Bulldog Atopic Itch Allergy 5 X MUST KNOW
- Environmental atopic itch allergy is the most common allergy in bulldogs.
- There are outdoor and indoor allergens most affected by contact with skin (vs. inhalation)
- Bacterial and yeast infections are secondary to allergies.
- Washing the allergens off the skin and itch control is essential and should include non-RX bully therapeutics.
- Prevention and care include Dr. Kraemer’s Bulldog Allery and Itch Control Bundles.
Members of this bulldog community prefer prevention over RX
What Are The Common Allergies in Bulldogs?
- BULLDOG ALLERGIC ATOPIC ITCH DERMATITIS
- BULLDOG FLEA ALLERGY DERMATITIS
- BULLDOG FOOD ALLERGY DERMATITIS
- BULLDOG CONTACT ALLERGY DERMATITIS
Other less common bulldog and French bulldog skin conditions are:
- Bulldog demodex red mites
- Bulldog sarcoptic mites
- Bulldog dermatophytes: (ringworm)
- Bulldog pemphigus: autoimmune skin disease
- Bulldog Keratinization abnormalities
- Bulldog skin cancer: mast cell tumors, lymphoma, etc
Most bulldog skin allergies will also present with secondary bacterial infections and/or yeast infections
What Causes Allergic Atopy in Bulldogs and Fr. Bulldogs?
IMMUNE: Atopic dermatitis is primarily caused by an overactive immune response to environmental allergens.
INHERENT: Genetics also play a significant role, with certain breeds such as Bulldogs being more predisposed to the condition.
1. BULLDOG ALLERGY OUTDOOR ALLERGENS
- WEEDS
- GRASS
- POLEN
2. BULLDOG ALLERGY INDOOR ALLERGENS
- MOLD
- DUST MITE
- HUMAN DANDER
Most allergens affect pets via contact with the skin (inhalation allergies are rare)
Allergic Atopic Itch Dermatitis in Bulldogs SYMPTOMS:
Symptoms include:
- INTENSE ITCH:
- REDNESS & SORES: usually self-inflicted (iatrogenic)
- FLAKY & CRUSTY
- SEBBOREAH SICCA or OLSA: Bully Dry or/ Oily Flaky Skin Seborrhea
- SMELL
- ALOPECIA: bold and hairloss
- BACTERIA INFECTION: secondary to the itch
- YEAST INFECTION: Secondary bully Yeast Infection
Itching is the whole mark of bulldog & French bulldog allergies
How to Diagnose Bulldog Atopic Allergy?
The veterinarian diagnostic method requires a history of your bulldog’s diet and environment. Is your bulldog itching? and what the hair loss distribution?
- CYTOLOGY: microscopic exam of a skin impression to check for bacteria, yeast, and abnormal cells
- SCRAPE: skin scrape microscopic exam to check for demodex and sarcoptic mange
- VARL: Liquid Gold serum allergy blood test to test for indoor and outdoor allergen sensitivity
- FOOD TRIAL: hypoallergenic diet trial to r/o food allergy
- FLEA EXAM: check for typical dorsal lumber lesions and flea poop
- SKIN CULTURE: culture sensitivity for nonresponsive pets to multidrug-resistant bacteria such as MRSP
- FUNGAL CULTURE: check for ringworm (dermatophytes)
How to Prevent and Treat Bulldog Atopic Allergy?
Bathing, supplements, and bully topical bully therapeutics are critical to help relieve itching, repair the skin barrier, remove scale and flake, repair skin microbiome, and boost immunity.
1. BULLY ITCH CONTROL THERAPEUTIC
Therapeutic TOPICALS & SUPPLEMENTS are an internal essential part of any bully skin problem management
- Medicated Shampoo: Dr. Kraemer’s V4B ItchLess Bully Skin Shampoo
- Medicated Conditioner: V4B ItchLess Bully Cream Rinse Conditioner
HOW OFTEN: 1-2/week with a medicated shampoo
HOW LONG: 10 min. lathering before rinsing
CREAM RINSE CONDITIONER: recommend after shampooing
2. BULLDOG HYPOALLERGENIC THERAPEUTICS:
- Medicated Shampoo: Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Hypoallergenic Bully Skin Shampoo
- Medicated Conditioner: Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Bully Hypoallergenic After Shampoo Conditioner.
HOW OFTEN: 1-2/week with a medicated shampoo
HOW LONG: 10 min. lathering before rinsing
CREAM RINSE CONDITIONER: recommend after shampooing
For optimal outcomes use a conditioner after shampoo
3. BULLDOG ALLERGY ANTISEPTIC THERAPEUTICS:
Medicated Shampoo & Waterless Gel
- Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Yeasty Bully Antiseptic Shampoo. (10 minutes of lathering before rinsing)
- Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Bully Antiseptic ES Shampoo (5 min. lathering before rinsing).
- Dr. Kraemer’s V4B Yeasty Bully Waterless Gel
HOW OFTEN: 1-2/week with a medicated shampoo
HOW LONG: 10 min. lathering before rinsing
ANTISEPTIC GEL: The waterless gel application is best used on non-bath days; shake and then apply it to hands or directly; finish by rubbing it into the skin and coat.
For optimal outcome, we offer bundles at a reduced cost.
ATOPIC ALLERGY BULLY THERAPEUTIC SUPPLEMENTS:
- FISH OIL (EFA): Essential fatty acids (EFA) that combine Omega 3 and 6 fish oils, vitamins A and D
- PRE & PROBIOTICS: Pre & Probiotics help restore and assist the good gut bacteria (microbiome) and prevent Leaky Gut Syndrome, like
Atopic Allergy in Bulldog REGENERATIVE MEDICINE TREATMENT:
If bulldogs cannot tolerate anti-itch medication such as prednisone (steroid) because of adverse effects, or if pet owners prefer to avoid these drugs due to their potential long-term risks, they should discuss alternative options with their veterinarian.
BULLDOG ALLERGY STEM CELL THERAPY & CRYOBANKING:
Stem cell therapy is emerging as a revolutionary and safe treatment for allergic bulldogs, French bulldogs, and other pets suffering from chronic, unresolved itching caused by atopic dermatitis.
This innovative, non-pharmaceutical approach, known as stem cell therapy, shows tremendous promise in treating various inflammatory, immune-mediated, and painful conditions. By utilizing the pet’s mesenchymal stem cells, which are natural repair and anti-inflammatory agents, this therapy promotes organic healing for persistent and treatment-resistant allergies.
Dr. Kraemer offers cryobanking program, enabling future stem cell treatments to be readily available.
Atopic Itch Dermatitis in Bulldogs: PRESCRIPTION RX:
- Cytopoint: Cytopoint is a new, long-lasting, non-steroidal monoclonal antibody that targets IL-31, and is a safe itch relief injection that I now offer to my bulldog and French bulldog patients with allergic itch atopic dermatitis. It is usually administered every 4–8 weeks, or as needed.
- Itch Control: Steroids, Apoqel, Cyclosporin (Atopica), Anti-Histamines (not very effective)
- Antibiotics
- Antifungal
- Other: Pentoxyphillne
Allergic Atopic Itch in Bulldogs RULE OF THUMB:
Bulldogs and French Bulldogs experiencing intense itching should be examined for allergic atopic itch dermatitis. This severe itching often leads to self-trauma, causing stress, and potential sleep disturbances, and as the itch worsens, it can become painful.
Bulldog atopic itch dermatitis can quickly escalate into a significant quality-of-life issue, requiring prompt intervention. In many cases, it necessitates lifelong management and care.
Bulldog Allergic Atopic Dermatitis TIPS & WARNINGS:
Below are selective atopic dermatitis tips & warnings courtesy of Dr. Kraemer
#1. BULLDOG ALLERGIES ITCHING TIP:
English Bulldogs or French Bulldogs showing symptoms like itchy, red, irritated skin, bumps, chronic pigment changes, or thickened skin should be evaluated for bully atopic allergic dermatitis.
#2. BULLDOG ALLERGIES BODY DISTRIBUTION TIP
Bulldog atopic allergic dermatitis distribution is usually to the
- ears
- paws
- legs
- armpits
- abdomen
#3. BULLDOG ALLERGY IMMUNE THERAPY TIP:
A bulldog experiencing itchy skin attributed to environmental allergic atopic itch dermatitis could find relief through a blood test, which identifies the specific allergen causing the allergy. Once the allergens are pinpointed, immune therapy can be initiated to help manage the condition.
- Common outdoor allergens are grass, weeds, and tree/pollen.
- Common indoor allergens are mold, dust mites, and dandruff.
Achieving success in managing allergic atopic itch dermatitis in bulldogs may necessitate lifelong and consistent treatment. It’s important for bulldog owners committed to immunotherapy to understand that while it can provide relief, there are no guarantees of a complete cessation of itchiness. Therefore, ongoing use of topical and systemic medications to some degree may still be necessary.
It could take months before your bulldog’s itching improves.
#4. BULLDOG FOOD ALLERGY TIP
I recommend a food elimination trial with a hypoallergenic prescription diet to rule out bulldog and French bulldog food allergies.
#5. BULLDOG CONTACT ALLERY TIP:
If your bulldog presents with itching after a topical product is applied, bully contact allergy is the most likely cause.
#6. BULLDOG FLEA ALLERGY TIP:
I always recommend year-round flea prevention, especially in geographic locations where fleas are common.
#7. ANTI-HISTAMINES TIP:
Over-the-counter antihistamines are sometimes used to manage allergic itch and atopic dermatitis in bulldogs, though their effectiveness can vary. However, they are generally safe and may provide a mild sedative effect, helping both the pet and the owner get a better night’s sleep. Administering one before bedtime could offer some relief.
#8. BULLDOG ALLERGY GENETIC ORIGIN TIP:
We believe that in bulldogs there is a genetic disposition to atopic, itchy allergic dermatitis.
#9. BULLDOG ATOPIC ALLERGY CYTOLOGY TIP:
Common tests advised for any bulldog or French bulldog suspected of allergic-itch atopic dermatitis include cytology, which involves examining skin cells under a microscope, and sometimes bacterial cultures.
#10. ATOPIC ALLERGY STEM CELL THERAPY TIP:
For bulldog and French bulldog puppy owners concerned about the adverse effects of traditional treatments, I now offer a safe, cutting-edge alternative: stem cell therapy. This innovative approach utilizes your pet’s repair and anti-inflammatory cells to naturally heal and manage chronic allergic atopic itch dermatitis, providing a more holistic solution to their allergies.
#11. ALLERGIES BATHING TIP:
Most environmental allergens are absorbed through the skin; thus, just a water rinse alone helps remove the allergen, as well as scales and dander.
#12. BULLDOG ALLERGY ENVIRONMENT CONTROL TIP:
Unlike bulldog food allergies, eliminating the environmental allergens that trigger allergic itch and atopic dermatitis is often not possible. However, certain avoidance strategies can still be effective. Limiting outdoor playtime, especially when pollen counts are high, keeping the grass short, bathing your bulldog frequently, and regularly changing air conditioner filters can all help minimize allergen exposure.
#13. BULLDOG ALLERGY DUST MITES TIP:
To reduce the impact of indoor allergens like dust mites, regularly dust your home and use synthetic materials for your bulldog’s bedding. Frequent vacuuming, washing bedding regularly, replacing air conditioner filters, and keeping indoor humidity levels below 50% are also effective measures to manage allergens.
#14. ITCHING ALLERGIES MOLD TIP:
To avoid indoor allergens like mold, you can use air purifiers and humidifiers and avoid household plants and mulch.
#15. ALLERGY TOPICAL TREATMENT TIP:
Topical skin treatment is critical and should always be part of your therapeutic strategy and planning. They should usually include anti-itch and hypoallergenic shampoo and lotion.
Remember, among the benefits of topical therapy is the mechanical removal of allergens from your bulldog and French bulldog’s skin and coat.
#16. FOOD ALLERGY TIP:
Itchy bulldog and French bulldog puppies suffering from concurrent gastrointestinal problems should be suspected of a food allergy.
#17. CYTOPOINT INJECTION TIP:
I now offer bulldogs with atopic itch allergies an effective, safe, long-lasting, new monoclonal, antibody-specified injection.
#18. FISH OIL FOR BULLDOG ALLERGIES TIP:
I always recommend a holistic approach to allergic atopic itch dermatitis in bulldogs that includes essential fatty acids.
#1. FOOD ALLERGY WARNING:
Food allergies can present with itching patterns and skin distributions similar to allergic itch and atopic dermatitis, but they are distinct conditions. therapeutics
Food allergies are more common in young bulldog puppies and do not typically follow a seasonal pattern. Unlike atopic dermatitis, they may not respond to itching medications, such as prednisone, in the same way. Food hypersensitivity involves an adverse reaction to specific protein sources in your bulldog’s diet.
#2. BULLDOG DEMODEX MITE WARNING:
Bulldogs exhibiting skin allergies suspected of atopic dermatitis should undergo testing for skin mites, including Demodex and sarcoptic mange.
#3. BULLDOG RINGWORM WARNING:
If your bulldog did not respond adequately to prescribed allergy treatments, they should also be tested for
- DTM: ringworm with a DTM fungi culture
- HISTOPATHOLOGY: undergoes a biopsy for histopathology to exclude immune-mediated keratinization defects and cancer.
- HORMONAL TEST: Lastly, a blood test should be conducted to rule out hormonal abnormalities such as hypothyroidism and hyper-adrenal issues.
#4. ALLERGY HYPERSENSITIVITY WARNING:
Don’t confuse hypersensitivity with atopic allergy dermatitis. Hypersensitivity disorders are usually due to vaccine reactions or insect bites and will present with acute onset and swelling, often of the face, lips, and paws.
#5. ATOPIC ALLERGY STEROID WARNING:
Relieving the itch with a steroid might be effective, but long-term use is likely to be damaging, with the potential to cause multiple adverse effects.
#6 ATOPIC ALLERGY SECONDARY INFECTION WARNING:
We have been seeing a rise in bacteria that are resistant to common antibiotics (MRSP).
If your bulldog is not responsive to the empirical antibiotic prescribed, a culture should be done.
#7. ITCHING DURATION WARNING:
Allergic atopic itch dermatitis in bulldogs is often a long-term condition that can last for the life of your pet and usually requires treatment over an extended period.
#8. INDOOR AND OUTDOOR ALLERGY WARNING:
In contrast to bulldog and French bulldog food allergies, whereby elimination of allergens is possible as the method of treatment, avoiding implicated outdoor allergens (grasses, weeds, trees, etc.) and even indoor allergens (mold, dust mites, human dander, etc.) is usually difficult to accomplish.
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