Changes

The use of topical shampoos and washes can also be beneficial. As well as physically removing allergens from the skin and coat, moisturising shampoos can hydrate the skin and improve the lipid barrier. Colloidal oatmeal may also have a direct antipruritic action⁴. Anti-microbial or anti-scaling shampoos, and ear cleaners can prove useful in certain cases depending on presentation.

The use of topical shampoos and washes can also be beneficial. As well as physically removing allergens from the skin and coat, moisturising shampoos can hydrate the skin and improve the lipid barrier. Colloidal oatmeal may also have a direct antipruritic action⁴. Anti-microbial or anti-scaling shampoos, and ear cleaners can prove useful in certain cases depending on presentation.

====Essential fatty acids (EFA)====

Essential fatty acids have been subjected to numerous clinical trials. EFA supplementation alters incorporation into cell membranes, which may reduce production of inflammatory leukotrienes and prostaglandins⁴. The cutaneous lipid may also be improved. However, there is some conflicting informtation, and high levels of supplementation may be neccessary to give beneficial effects.

Numerous clinical trials and studies have evaluated

EFAs particularly the n-3 EFA eicosapentenoic acid

and incorporation into cell membranes, which may

lead to production of less inflammatory leucotrienes

and prostaglandins and improved cutaneous lipid

barrier. Recent studies, however, have not found

and healthy dogs, and no correlation with the

ratio of n-3/n-6 EFAs have been proven, although

high doses seem to be more effective. Recent

diets are beneficial in canine AD although how

or cutaneous barrier improvements is unclear (4).

===Allergen specific therapy===

===Allergen specific therapy===