Common Failures of Skin Treatments
Even under the best circumstances, not all therapies will work. The most common reason for failure is not the products, but usually an underlying condition that has been undiagnosed in our pets. Probably one of the most common we deal with is an autoimmune disease. This is where, for whatever reason, the dog’s body starts attacking itself. The symptoms of this disease are often intermittent so they may get better initially and then deteriorate later for no apparent reason. This is frustrating at best.
Other disease like liver, kidney, hormonal (thyroid, diabetes, etc.) and allergies can also act similar. For this reason, we should always keep a veterinarian involved so that we have realistic expectations for our results.
Why Some Pet Skin Treatments Don’t Work
- An undiagnosed underlying disease, such as autoimmune, hormonal, liver or kidney disease, or allergies
- Treating only one organism, so bacteria or yeast takes over. See why some skin infections just won’t go away
- Stopping too soon. The skin renews in about 21 days, so results need several weeks
- Harsh products or skipped conditioner that keep damaging the skin barrier
- Inconsistent home care between salon visits
- Ongoing triggers such as fleas, diet or environment that are not addressed
Autoimmune Skin Disease: Why Results Come and Go
In autoimmune disease the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, which can include the skin. Symptoms often flare and settle without an obvious reason, so a pet may improve with therapy and then get worse again. This is not a failure of the bathing routine. It is a sign that medical diagnosis and management are needed.
Setting Realistic Expectations
- Keep a veterinarian involved, especially for chronic, severe or worsening skin problems.
- Take before-and-after photos so progress is measured fairly.
- Judge results over several weeks, not one bath.
- Agree with the owner on home care between baths.
- Refer back to the veterinarian if there is no improvement or if the pet gets worse.
Explore our skin therapy products, and see related articles on hormonal skin disease and what to do if your dog has skin allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn’t my dog’s skin treatment working?
The most common reason is an undiagnosed underlying condition such as autoimmune disease, allergies, or hormonal, liver or kidney disease. Treating only bacteria or only yeast, or stopping too soon, can also cause failure.
How long does it take to see results from skin therapy?
The skin renews itself in about 21 days, so improvement is usually judged over several weeks of consistent care.
When should a groomer refer a skin case to a veterinarian?
Refer when the skin is worsening, painful, infected, or not improving, and whenever an underlying disease is suspected.