I'm in need of some advice about my 5-year-old golden retriever, Bella. She's always been super energetic and happy-go-lucky, but recently I've noticed her skin seems different—it's red and kind of rash-like. What's really throwing me off is that she doesn’t seem bothered by it at all. She's not scratching or licking more than usual and is eating and playing like everything is normal. I’m just worried because it looks pretty irritated to me. I’m debating whether this is something that can wait until Monday to see our regular vet or if I should be more concerned and take her to the emergency vet. Does anyone else have experience with their dog's skin issues where the dog didn't show signs of discomfort? Any advice would be really appreciated!
Hi there! It's great to hear that your dog isn't acting bothered by her skin. However, since you've noticed a skin issue, it’s always a good idea to keep a close eye on her. There could be several reasons behind skin changes, and it's important to consider them.
Common causes can include allergies, parasites like fleas or mites, fungal infections, or even environmental factors like dry weather. Sometimes, skin issues are not immediately irritating but can escalate if not addressed.
For now, take a closer look at her skin. Is there redness, scaling, or any unusual texture or patches? Try to keep her environment as clean and allergen-free as possible. Regularly grooming her can also help, ensuring that her coat is free from irritants.
Watch for signs of a more serious issue, such as excessive scratching, open sores, pus, bad odor, or if she starts losing fur in patches. Any of these signs may require more urgent attention.
If you’re concerned or notice any of these symptoms, it might be a good time to connect with a professional. Booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet can offer more personalized guidance and peace of mind.
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