Author: dermcareadmin

New Year’s Resolutions

Pawsitive New Year’s Resolutions

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Dermcare Products, Holiday Season, News.

Pawsitive New Year’s Resolutions

The New Year marks more than just a change in the calendar—it’s a chance to reset, refocus, and chase after the goals that matter most. But let’s be honest: resolutions can be tough to keep. That’s where your pets come in! From wagging tails to gentle purrs, animals bring motivation, joy, and accountability to your daily routine. Pets don’t just enrich your life—they can actually help you succeed in your Pawsitive New Year’s resolutions.

Resolution 1: Get More Active

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to exercise more. Dogs, in particular, are natural fitness partners. Daily walks, runs, or even games of fetch encourage you to move your body while strengthening the bond with your furry friend. Studies show that dog owners are more likely to meet daily activity goals because pets thrive on routine and outdoor play.

Resolution 2: Reduce Stress

Mindfulness and stress reduction are high on many resolution lists. Spending time with animals has been proven to lower cortisol levels and boost serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone. Whether it’s cuddling your cat, grooming your horse, or simply watching fish swim, pets provide calming companionship that helps you unwind after a busy day.

Resolution 3: Spend Less Time on Screens

In today’s digital world, many people resolve to cut down on screen time. Pets are the perfect reminder to unplug. Instead of scrolling through social media, you can spend quality time playing with your cat, give your dog a bath with Aloveen Shampoo and Conditioner, or teaching your bird a new trick. These real-life interactions not only reduce screen dependency but also create meaningful moments that boost your mood and strengthen your bond with your pet.

Resolution 4: Improve Social Connections

Another popular resolution is to meet new people or strengthen relationships. Pets are wonderful social icebreakers. Dog parks, training classes, or even online pet communities create opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Sharing stories about your pets can spark conversations and build friendships.

Resolution 5: Practice Gratitude and Joy

Finally, many people resolve to focus on happiness and gratitude. Animals remind us to appreciate the simple things—like a wagging tail, a playful purr, or a loyal nuzzle. Their unconditional love encourages us to slow down, be present, and celebrate small victories.

 

As you step into the New Year, remember that your pets aren’t just companions—they’re partners in your journey toward better health, happiness, and balance. By including them in your resolutions, you’ll find extra motivation, joy, and accountability along the way.

toxic christmas food. don't feed pets

Christmas Foods You Should Never Feed Your Pets

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Dog Care, Holiday Season, News.

Keep the Festive Season Safe: Christmas Foods You Should Never Feed Your Pets

The holiday season is a time for celebration, indulgence and sharing, but when it comes to your pets, some of the most common Christmas foods can pose serious health risks. While it might be tempting to slip your dog or cat a festive treat under the table, many traditional holiday dishes contain ingredients that are toxic or harmful to pets. To help keep your furry family members safe this Christmas, here are the key foods you should avoid and why.

  1. Chocolate and Sweets

Chocolate is one of the most well-known foods to never give your dogs and cats. It contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which pets can’t metabolise effectively. Dark chocolate poses the highest risk, but all forms can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, hyperactivity, tremors and, in severe cases, seizures. Many festive sweets also contain xylitol (a sugar substitute) extremely toxic to pets, capable of causing dangerous drops in blood sugar and acute liver failure.

  1. Christmas Pudding, Cake and Mince Pies

These traditional treats often contain raisins, sultanas and currants, which are highly toxic to dogs and can cause sudden kidney failure. Even small quantities can be dangerous. Christmas cakes and puddings may also contain alcohol, spices and high levels of fat, all of which can upset a pet’s digestive system or lead to pancreatitis.

  1. Cooked Bones

Whether from ham, turkey or chicken, cooked bones can splinter easily, leading to choking, internal injuries or intestinal blockages. Raw bones are less brittle, but still carry risks, so it’s best to avoid feeding bones altogether during the festivities.

  1. Fatty Meats and Skin

Christmas roasts often come with trimmings rich in fat, including crackling, ham skin and fatty cuts of meat. These can trigger pancreatitis—a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms may include vomiting, abdominal pain, decreased appetite and lethargy.

  1. Onions, Garlic, Leeks and Other Alliums

Stuffings, gravies and many savoury dishes contain onions, garlic, leeks or chives. These ingredients can damage red blood cells in pets, leading to anaemia. Even powdered forms can be harmful, and symptoms may be delayed for several days before appearing.

  1. Nuts—Especially Macadamias

Macadamia nuts are highly toxic to dogs, causing weakness, joint pain, tremors, vomiting and elevated body temperature.

Keep Your Pets Safe This Christmas

To ensure a stress-free, pet-friendly Christmas, stick to their regular diet and offer pet-approved treats only. If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten something dangerous, contact your veterinarian immediately.

A little extra caution around the table goes a long way—keeping everyone in the family safe, healthy and ready to enjoy the festive season.

Ryde Vet Clinic Barazone Training Promo

Barazone Training Promo Winner

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in News.

Big congratulations to Ryde Vetfriends Clinic!

✨ They scored themselves a shiny new coffee machine in our Barazone Training promo — talk about grounds for celebration!

Dr Rita and Haley, were all smiles accepting the prize on behalf of the amazing team.

Here’s to many energised mornings, shared smiles, and a whole lot of mocha magic in the clinic – you’ve earned it! 🙌

Cat rainy days

Anxiety During Storm Season

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Pet Care.

Helping Your Pets Cope With Anxiety During Storm Season

As storm season approaches, many pet owners start preparing for unpredictable weather—but it’s not just homes that need protection. For many animals, thunderstorms trigger intense fear, stress, and anxiety. With early preparation and the right strategies, you can help your animals feel calmer and safer when the thunder starts to roll.

Why Pets Become Anxious in Storms

Storm-related anxiety is more common than many people realise. Pets experience storms through heightened senses. They can detect low-frequency rumbles long before humans can, sense shifts in atmospheric pressure and static electricity, and will often associate these cues with danger. This can trigger fear-based behaviours such as hiding, trembling, vocalising, pacing, panting, or seeking constant reassurance. If left unmanaged, this fear can escalate into a long-term storm phobia.

Cats, while often more subtle, may show signs such as flattening their ears, dilated pupils, frantic running, or withdrawing to hard-to-reach hiding spots.

Early Signs to Watch For

Identifying early indicators of storm anxiety can help you intervene before panic sets in. Look for behaviours such as:

  • Restlessness or pacing
  • Excessive grooming
  • Hiding or seeking out enclosed spaces
  • Vocalising or unusual clinginess
  • Trembling or shaking (more common in dogs)
  • Sudden destructive behaviour or attempts to escape

If these signs recur during storms, it may be time to adopt proactive management strategies.

How to Support Your Animals During Storm Season

There are several effective ways to help your pets feel more secure:

  • Create a safe haven: Prepare a quiet, enclosed area filled with familiar bedding, toys, and comforting scents. Cats often prefer elevated perches or covered spaces. If you have larger outdoor animals (ie. horses) ensure stables are dry and have bedding. Prolonged exposure to moisture softens the hoof wall and creates a perfect environment for bacteria and fungus to breed.
  • Reward calm behaviour: Reinforce moments of relaxed behaviour to help build positive associations.
  • Avoid punishment: Anxiety is not misbehaviour—responding negatively will only increase fear. For pets with severe reactions, your veterinarian may recommend behaviour-modification strategies, desensitisation programs, or short-term medication to relieve acute distress.

Plan Ahead for Success

Storm anxiety rarely improves without intervention. Preparing your pets early—before the peak of storm season—can significantly reduce their fear response over time. Consistent routines, gradual exposure training, and veterinary guidance can all help your pets feel more confident during wild weather.

When to Speak with a Vet

If your dog or cat shows significant distress, or their storm anxiety affects daily life, professional support can make all the difference. Veterinary teams can tailor a management plan specific to your pet’s individual triggers and behaviours.

Itchy Horse

“The Itchy Horse” Webinar with Dr. Tina Baxter

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Equine Care, News, Pet Care.

Dermcare-Vet recently hosted an equine dermatology webinar, “The Itchy Horse,” presented by Dr. Tina Baxter. Dr Tina shared many of her “Two-cent Tips for Totally Talented Equine Vets” that she has developed from being both a lecturer at Uni Vets Camden and clinician. The session focused on helping veterinarians and equine professionals diagnose, understand and manage itchy horses. Her simple yet powerful strategies highlight a distinctive ability to bridge the gap between ideal treatment protocols and real-world clinical application, helping clinicians achieve effective outcomes for their itchy horse patients

At Dermcare-Vet, we believe that better education leads to better patient outcomes. Webinars like “The Itchy Horse” form part of our ongoing commitment to supporting veterinarians and vet nurses with continuing professional development in veterinary dermatology.

This webinar along with other resources are available in the Vet Section of our website.

If you are a veterinarian and would like the log in details for the Vet Section, please contact your local territory representative or the Dermcare-Vet head office.

Itchy Dog Scratching Dermatology

‘Tis the Season to be Itchy: Seasonal Dermatitis in Pets

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Dermcare Products, Dog Care, News, Pet Care.

‘Tis the Season to be Itchy: Seasonal Dermatitis in Pets

Seasonal dermatitis is one of the most common skin conditions affecting dogs and cats. It usually flares up during warmer months and can cause significant discomfort if left untreated. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments, pet owners can help their animals enjoy every season itch-free.

What Is Seasonal Dermatitis?

Seasonal dermatitis, sometimes called seasonal allergies in pets, refers to skin inflammation triggered by environmental allergens such as pollen, grass seeds, mould spores, or dust mites. It often occurs in spring and summer, when pollen counts are higher and pets spend more time outdoors. Pets with atopic dermatitis or flea allergy dermatitis are especially prone to flare-ups.

Symptoms of Seasonal Dermatitis in Pets

Signs that may indicate seasonal dermatitis include:

  • Persistent itching, licking, or chewing
  • Red, inflamed, or flaky patches of skin
  • Hair loss or thinning coat
  • Recurrent ear infections
  • Hot spots (moist, raw skin lesions)
  • Secondary bacterial or yeast infections

Because skin infections in dogs and cats can look similar to allergies, veterinary diagnosis is important.

How to Manage and Treat Seasonal Dermatitis

  1. Reduce Allergen Exposure
  • Wipe your pet’s coat and paws after outdoor walks.
  • Keep grass trimmed and avoid high-pollen areas.
  • Use air purifiers indoors to reduce allergens.
  • Wash bedding frequently in hot water to remove dust mites and pollen particles.
  1. Bathe with Dermcare-Vet Products

Regular bathing with Dermcare-Vet Natural Shampoo or Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo can wash away allergens, calm itching, and support skin health. This can be followed up with our leave on Natural Conditioner or Aloveen Oatmeal Conditioner, which provide lasting moisture and relief.

  1. Year-Round Flea Control

Fleas are a major trigger of skin irritation. Consistent flea prevention is crucial—even in cooler months.

  1. Veterinary Treatments for Severe Cases

In more persistent cases, veterinarians may recommend anti-itch medications, antibiotics or antifungal therapies for secondary infections, or allergen-specific immunotherapy (injections or oral drops) to desensitise pets over time.

Long-Term Outlook

Seasonal dermatitis cannot always be cured, but it can be successfully managed. With proactive care and early intervention, most pets experience significant relief from itchy skin during allergy season.

If a pet shows signs of seasonal skin problems, early veterinary care is the best way to prevent painful flare-ups. With the right treatment plan, seasonal dermatitis can be controlled, allowing pets to stay comfortable year-round.

For veterinary clinics: For further information on managing seasonal dermatitis, to discuss product options, or information on allergen-specific immunotherapy please contact the Dermcare-Vet team.

Infection Allergy

Allergy or Infection?

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Dermcare Products, News, Pet Care.

Allergy or Infection?

When your dog or cat starts itching, scratching, or showing skin changes, it can be hard to tell what’s really going on. Is it an allergy? Is it an infection? Or both? Understanding the difference between allergies and infections in pets is key to getting the right treatment and helping your pet feel better, faster.

Allergy vs Infection: What’s the Difference?

Allergies in pets are an overreaction of the immune system to things like pollen, food ingredients, dust mites, or even flea saliva. These reactions cause inflammation, leading to red, itchy, and irritated skin.

On the other hand, infections are caused by microorganisms, like bacteria or yeast, that invade and grow on the skin, often when the skin barrier is already compromised. Pets with allergies are prone to secondary infections due to constant scratching and damage to the skin surface.

Signs and Symptoms

Allergy signs may include:

  • Persistent itching or licking
  • Red or inflamed skin
  • Hair loss or thinning
  • Ear infections (often recurrent)
  • Paw chewing or face rubbing

Infection signs may include:

  • Crusty, oozing, or smelly skin
  • Red bumps or pustules
  • Greasy or discoloured coat
  • Thickened skin or dark pigmentation
  • A sudden worsening of itching

Often, allergies and infections occur together—an allergy weakens the skin barrier, and bacteria or yeast take advantage of the broken skin.

How to Treat

Allergy management focuses on a multimodal management regime to reduce inflammation/itching and removing or avoiding the underlying trigger. This may include:

  • Prescription anti-inflammatory medications
  • Prescription diets
  • Regular bathing with a veterinary specific shampoo and conditioner
  • +/- Allergen-specific immunotherapy

Infection treatment often requires one or more of the following:

  • Topical antimicrobials
  • Medicated shampoos and conditioners
  • Systemic antibiotics or antifungal medications

Dermcare Products That Can Help

Dermcare has a concise range of high quality veterinary dermatology products that support both allergy management and infection control:

  • Barazone® – A prescription leave-on conditioner for the symptomatic treatment of canine atopic dermatitis, contact allergy or other pruritic conditions in the dog.
  • Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo – Combines miconazole and chlorhexidine for the treatment of seborrhoeic dermatitis associated with infections with Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Malassezia pachydermatitis in dogs and cats.
  • Pyohex® Shampoo and Pyohex® Conditioner – Contains chlorhexidine to aid in the treatment of superficial dermatitis associated with infection by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in dogs.
  • Aloveen® Shampoo and Aloveen® Conditioner – Contains oatmeal and aloe vera to soothe inflamed, itchy skin in dogs, cats and horses.

If your pet is showing signs of skin problems, speak with your veterinarian. Proper diagnosis will determine if it’s an allergy, an infection, or both. With the right care plan and targeted products, your pet can get back to feeling comfortable and happy.

MRSP Bacteria Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius

Understanding Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) in Dogs

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Dog Care, News.

Understanding Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) in Dogs: Symptoms, Risks & Treatments

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) is a growing concern in veterinary dermatology. Similar to the more well-known MRSA in humans, MRSP is a type of bacteria that has developed resistance to commonly used antibiotics, making infections more difficult to treat.

What is MRSP?

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is a bacteria commonly found on the skin of healthy dogs. However, when there is underlying disease present such as an allergy, these bacteria can overgrow and cause infection. MRSP is a drug-resistant strain of these bacteria.

Symptoms and Risks

Signs of an MRSP infection often resemble a typical bacterial skin infection but may persist despite treatment. These can include:

  • Red, inflamed skin
  • Pustules or pimples
  • Hair loss
  • Crusting or scaling
  • Itching or discomfort

How is MRSP Treated?

Because MRSP is resistant to many common antibiotics, culture and sensitivity testing is critical. This allows veterinarians to determine which specific antibiotics may still be effective. In many cases, topical therapy becomes the cornerstone of treatment. This may include antiseptic shampoos and conditioners that can help manage infection on the skin’s surface and minimise reliance on systemic antibiotics.

Dermcare Products That May Help

Resistance to high concentrations of antiseptics and antimicrobials in topical products is very uncommon. There is good evidence for the use of shampoos containing 2-3% chlorhexidine for MRSP infections. Dermcare have two medicated products in our range:

A Multi-Pronged Approach

Combating MRSP requires more than just treatment, it involves managing the underlying skin condition, improving the skin barrier, and practicing good hygiene. Regular bathing with antiseptic shampoos, using topical treatments as directed, and working closely with your vet can make a significant difference in outcomes.

Always consult your veterinarian if your dog shows signs of skin infection or if a previous infection returns. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are key to managing MRSP effectively.

 

Horse Coat and Skin Care

Horse Coat and Skin Care: Essential Tips for a Healthy, Shiny Horse

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Dermcare Products, Equine Care, News.

Horse Coat and Skin Care: Essential Tips for a Healthy, Shiny Horse

A shiny, healthy coat is more than just a sign of a well-groomed horse—it reflects overall health and proper care. With the right grooming habits, targeted treatments, and good nutrition, you can keep your horse’s skin and coat in top condition all year round. Here’s how to get started.

Daily Grooming Matters

Consistent grooming helps remove dirt and loose hair while distributing natural oils that keep the coat shiny. A few minutes each day with a curry comb and stiff-bristled brush not only enhances coat health but also allows you to check for skin issues like scabs, bites, or irritation. Use soft brushes or mitts for the face and sensitive areas.

Bathing: Keep It Gentle and Targeted

While horses don’t need frequent baths, the occasional wash—especially after exercise or during warmer months—can support skin health and comfort. Always use equine-specific shampoos that are gentle and pH-balanced.

Dermcare’s veterinary-grade products, such as Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo or Natural Shampoo, are excellent choices. These formulations help cleanse the coat without stripping natural oils, and are ideal for horses with sensitive or itchy skin. Rinse thoroughly to remove all residue, which can cause irritation or dryness if left behind.

Common Skin Conditions and How to Manage Them

Several skin conditions can affect horses, particularly in warm, humid, or insect-prone environments. Keep an eye out for signs such as itching, hair loss, scabs, flaking, or irritated skin.

One of the most common problems is sweet itch— caused by allergic reactions to midge bites. Equicort® is a prescription product for the reduction of lesions and pruritus associated with equine Culicoides spp. bite hypersensitivity (Queensland Itch/Sweet Itch) in horses. For more information and to see if this product is right for your horse contact your local veterinarian.

To help prevent insect-related problems, use Permoxin Insecticidal Spray. This long-lasting, water-resistant treatment repels flies, mosquitoes, and biting insects effectively. Combined with fly sheets and good paddock hygiene, Permoxin can help manage insect exposure throughout the warmer months.

Nutrition and Coat Health

What your horse eats plays a big role in skin and coat condition. A balanced diet is the best way to maintain healthy skin and promote a natural gloss shine all year round.

Keep Rugs and Equipment Clean

Blanketing your horse correctly protects the coat from sun damage and environmental wear. Always use clean, well-fitting rugs made from breathable materials. Dirty or ill-fitting rugs can trap sweat and bacteria against the skin, leading to irritation or fungal infections.

Clean your grooming tools, saddle pads, and tack regularly to avoid the spread of bacteria and fungi, especially if your horse has a known skin issue.

Conclusion

Caring for your horse’s coat and skin doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs consistency. By grooming daily, using trusted products like Dermcare’s shampoos, and managing common skin conditions with solutions like EquiCort and Permoxin, you’ll help your horse stay comfortable, healthy, and glowing all year round.

Aloveen Shampoo vs Natural Shampoo

Which one should I use? Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo vs. Natural Shampoo

Written by dermcareadmin on . Posted in Dermcare Products, Dog Care, News.

Which one should I use? Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo vs. Natural Shampoo

At Dermcare-Vet, we know that choosing the right shampoo for your pet’s skin and coat health can be a little overwhelming. Whether your pet needs soothing relief or a gentle clean, we’re here to help you make an informed decision. Below, we’ve outlined the key benefits and recommended uses of two of our most popular formulations: Dermcare Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo and Dermcare Natural Shampoo.

Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo

Soothing care for itchy, sensitive, or dry skin

Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo is formulated for pets with itchy, dry, or sensitive skin. It contains oatmeal and aloe vera to help nourish and soothe the skin during every bath.

Key benefits:

  • Soap-free and pH balanced
  • Contains oatmeal and aloe vera
  • Helps relieve itchy and dry skin
  • Leaves the coat soft, shiny, and lightly fragranced
  • Suitable for dogs, cats and horses

Recommended for:
Aloveen is also ideal for pets prone to dry, itchy skin.

For best results, we recommend using Aloveen Intensive Conditioner after shampooing to provide additional moisture and comfort between washes. Keep an eye out for the NEW look Aloveen Starter Packs!

Natural Shampoo

A gentle hypoallergenic cleanser for normal or sensitive skin

Natural Shampoo is our hypoallergenic cleanser suitable for animals with normal or sensitive skin. It’s ideal for pet owners looking for a gentle cleanser to maintain skin health and coat cleanliness.

Key benefits:

  • Gentle formulation
  • Soap-free and pH balanced for pets
  • Suitable for regular use on all coat types

Recommended for:
Dogs, cats and horses with normal, healthy skin who require a routine shampoo.

Australian-Made Pet Skincare

Our mission is to provide Australian-made, veterinary-quality products that support the long-term skin and coat health of your pet. Both Aloveen Oatmeal Shampoo and Natural Shampoo are soap-free, pH balanced, and formulated to the highest standards for the safety and comfort of your furry friend.

Whichever product you choose, you can feel confident that your pet is receiving high-quality care, trusted by vets.

If your pet has a diagnosed skin condition or you’re unsure which product is most suitable, we recommend speaking to your veterinarian for personalised advice.