Let's Talk Atopica.....

So, the resident pie-bald (aka Head of Security or Oskar) appears to be responding to treatment with Atopica. He has been treated for a week or so & we are seeing positive results (said with breath held).

Atopica is given to treat atopic dermotitis. (which happens when Osk became too sensitive to his list of allergens for which he tested positive for. Now, the food allergen is pretty easy to control (he eats a Limited Ingredient Diet). The other allergens, such as house dust mites (ewww....but we all got 'em) & pollens & grasses outside).

To lower the spreading of dust mites, all dog beds & blankies get thoroughly washed & dried (in the dryer...as placing outside can cause pollen to collect on them while they dry) on a weekly basis. (I know, fun, eh?). And much to Oskar's delight every second Wednesday is "bath" day...I haven't advised him what today is..I find it much better to sneak up "surprise" him. He actually does enjoy his medicated baths...just not the water so much. After he is blown dry, Deermoscent is applied between his shoulder blades. If you aren't familiar with Dermoscent, http://www.drugs.com/vet/dermoscent-essential-6-spot-on-can.html is a good read.

We also vacuum lots...although we have ceramic & hardwood floors ....no carpets for us, to keep the dust mite population at bay.
Also, it's that "time of year again" here on our fail Isle....spring...and that means flea medication for prevention of flea infestation (which started today...snuck in Sentinel tablet into their breakfast).


We have read that certain breeds may be prone to atopic dermotitis...it seems that Oskar has had skin issues of some sort or another, his whole life. He was treated for a skin infection just before we adopted him, all those years ago.

Atopic dermotitis is likened to humans suffering with poison ivy...can you imagine how awful it is to be so itchy? And with Osk it is a cycle...he licks & scratches because he is itchy, the moisture from licking causes a bacterial infection...and the infection causes the need for antibiotics. I am pleased Dr. Condon has prescribed Atpica....as we are seeing positive results in just a little over a week. Our bloggie friend, Lily, http://www.twofrenchbulldogs.com has written, that she is using Atopica too.

So, there you have it....a little insight into our world of Atopic Dermotitis!! Off to bath a piebald......