Description
The canine skin and ear microbiomes consist of a diverse community of microorganisms that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin function.
In some dogs, a genetic or environmental predisposition to barrier dysfunction can contribute to the development and persistence of certain skin diseases. Specific pathogens are often associated with conditions such as atopic dermatitis and otitis externa and are often implicated in these disease processes.
By leveraging the competitive properties of beneficial bacteria—like lactobacilli—which can interact with harmful microbes, it may be possible to extend the periods of health in dogs prone to sensitive skin or ears. Supporting the restoration of a balanced and diverse microbiome on the skin and in the ear canal could reduce the need for frequent medical treatments, ultimately enhancing long-term patient health and well-being.
Learning Objectives
- Summary of the skin and ear microbiome, and why it’s important
- What impacts the skin/ ear microbiome
- Factors that could cause an imbalance
- Bacteria associated with common diseases and dysbiotic states
- How lactobacilli can help restore balance and how this is achieved
- Measurement of the microbial balance moving forward, and what the future could hold
