Malaseb vs Pyohex

Pyohex® vs Malaseb®: Which one should I use?

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

Skin problems are one of the most common reasons pet owners visit their veterinarian. At Dermcare Vet, we’ve developed targeted medicated shampoos to help manage specific conditions. Two of our most trusted products—Pyohex® Medicated Shampoo and Conditioner, and Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo—are often recommended by vet, but they serve different purposes.

 

Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo

Malaseb® is both antibacterial and antifungal, making it a versatile treatment option.

  • Indications:
    • Seborrhoeic dermatitis associated with Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Malassezia pachydermatis
    • Aid in the treatment of dermatophyte (ringworm) infections in dogs and cats
  • Benefits:
    • Dual-action formula tackles bacteria and fungi simultaneously
    • Helps reduce remove scale and degrease the skin and coat.
    • Suitable for both dogs and cats

Pyohex® Medicated Shampoo & Conditioner

Pyohex® is an antibacterial shampooand conditioner designed specifically for dogs.

  • Indications:
    • Aid in the treatment of superficial bacterial dermatitis caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius
  • Benefits:
    • Focused antibacterial action for bacterial skin infections
    • Conditioner provides extended antibacterial protection between washes
    • Ideal for long-term maintenance in dogs prone to recurrent bacterial infections

 

Key Differences

Feature Malaseb® Shampoo Pyohex® Shampoo & Conditioner
Active Ingredients             d Chlorhexidine + Miconazole Chlorhexidine only
Targets Bacteria, Yeast + Fungi Bacteria only
Common Uses Seborrheic dermatitis, yeast, ringworm            d   d Superficial bacterial dermatitis

 

Next Steps

  • Always consult your veterinarian before starting medicated shampoos. A qualified veterinarian will perform tests to confirm the diagnosis and provide a treatment plan.
  • Follow the recommended bathing frequency and contact times for best results.
  • Never substitute human shampoos—pets’ skin requires veterinary-specific formulations.

 

Healthy skin means a happier pet. Pyohex® Medicated Shampoo and Conditioner, and Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo are science backed, tested and trusted products. Both are powerful solutions for managing skin health and keeping your pet comfortable.

The Malaseb® Story

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

Developed Locally, Reaching Globally: The Malaseb® Story

For over three decades, Dermcare-Vet’s Malaseb® Medicated Shampoo has been a trusted product in veterinary dermatology, helping pets around the world manage skin conditions with confidence. What began as a local Australian innovation has grown into one of the most widely recognised medicated shampoos in global veterinary care. Today, Dermcare-Vet is proud to highlight Malaseb®’s journey, from its origins in Australia to its presence in clinics and homes across multiple continents.

Developed Locally

Malaseb® was developed by Dr. Ken Mason, one of Australia’s first veterinary dermatologists, who recognised the need for a scientifically backed, reliable topical product to manage common skin issues in dogs and cats. Through extensive research and clinical experience, Malaseb® was formulated to deliver effective antibacterial and antifungal activity for dogs and cats suffering from seborrhoeic dermatitis and ringworm infections. This commitment to quality and evidence-based research is the foundation of Malaseb®’s longstanding success.

Reaching Globally

As Malaseb® gained momentum in Australia, its reputation for delivering consistent, clinically proven outcomes quickly spread. Support from veterinary professionals, continued education initiatives and Dermcare-Vet’s strong partnerships helped Malaseb® transition from a local favourite to an internationally respected product. Today, Malaseb® is widely available in regions including New Zealand, Japan, the United Kingdom, Europe, Southeast Asia, parts of the Middle East and North America, trusted by vets who rely on its performance every day.

Dermcare-Vet remains deeply involved in supporting vets and distributors internationally, offering education, training and resources to ensure Malaseb® is used effectively and confidently. Australian veterinarians can directly access detailed resources, product information and clinical support through the Vet Section of our website. Additionally, clinics can book their local territory representative for an in-person training sessions to provide product education, helping staff stay informed and empowered when managing dermatological cases. This commitment to partnership helps maintain the product’s strong reputation and reinforces its role as a leader in dermatological care.

From its beginnings as a locally developed innovation to its current role as a globally recognised dermatology staple, Malaseb®’s journey reflects Dermcare-Vet’s commitment to science, quality and the wellbeing of animals everywhere. As Dermcare-Vet continues to grow its international presence, we remain proud of the product that started it all, and grateful for the veterinarians and pet owners worldwide who trust Malaseb® to improve and maintain the skin health of their dogs and cats.

Oleander

Common Plants in Australia That Are Toxic to Dogs

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

Australia’s diverse flora is beautiful, but not all greenery is safe for our four-legged friends. Knowing which ones to avoid in your garden or on walks is essential to keeping your pet safe. At Dermcare-Vet, we encounter animals with allergies resulting in inflamed and irritated skin, however there are some plants that are toxic and should be avoided altogether. Whether in your backyard, local park, or bushland, you should be mindful of certain plants which can cause serious health issues if ingested.

Top Toxic Plants for Dogs in Australia

Here are some of the most common plants you may encounter that pose risks to dogs:

  • Aloe Vera – Mild to moderately toxic causing vomiting, diarrhoea, depression, changes in the colour of urine, tremors
  • Oleander – Highly toxic; ingestion can lead to severe cardiac problems, drooling, vomiting, seizures and death
  • Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta) – Seeds and leaves are extremely poisonous, causing vomiting, weakness, tremors and liver failure
  • Daffodils – Bulbs are especially dangerous, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate and abdominal pain
  • Ferns (Asparagus Fern, Emerald Fern, Lace Fern, Plumosa Fern) – Skin irritation, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.
  • Mushrooms (wild varieties) – Many species are toxic and hard to identify; ingestion can be fatal.
  • Tulips – These vibrant flowers, particularly the bulb, can be toxic to cats and dogs causing drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, increased heart rate, difficulty or rapid breathing.
  • Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow – This bright flowering shrub can be poisonous to cats and dogs causing vomiting, anxious behaviour, coordination problems, tremors, seizures

Symptoms to Watch For

If your dog has chewed on or ingested a toxic plant, symptoms may include:

  • Excessive drooling
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Seizures or tremors
  • Abnormal heart rhythms

Immediate veterinary care is critical. Bring a sample of the suspected plant to your vet for faster diagnosis.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe

  • Plan your garden carefully – Avoid planting known toxic species.
  • Supervise walks – Keep dogs on a lead and discourage chewing on plants.
  • Educate family members – Ensure everyone knows which plants are dangerous.
  • Act fast – If ingestion occurs, contact your vet immediately.

 

Dogs are naturally curious, and Australia’s lush environment can hide unexpected hazards. By learning which plants are toxic, you can create a safer space for your pet. At Dermcare Vet, we believe prevention is the best medicine—so take the time to dog-proof your garden and stay alert on walks.

Click here for a more extensive list of toxic flowers and plants

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.

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.

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.

 

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.

keep your pet warm this winter

Keeping Your Pets Warm This Winter: 5 Must-Know Tips

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

Is your furry friend ready for the cold months ahead?
Winter isn’t just tough on humans—our furry friends feel the cold too. While we may not have snow, our pets can still feel the cold—especially indoors or during early morning and evening walks. It’s crucial to take extra steps to ensure their comfort and safety. In this guide, you’ll learn how to keep your pet warm this winter

Why Winter Pet Care Is Critical

While Australian winters aren’t as severe as other places in the world, pets still face seasonal risks—especially in homes without central heating. Short-haired breeds, kittens, puppies, and senior pets are particularly sensitive to temperature drops and dampness.

5 Essential Winter Care Tips for Dogs and Cats

  1. Dress for the Weather

Even in milder winters, pets with short fur or lean builds (like greyhounds or Siamese cats) often need extra warmth. A lightweight, insulated dog coat or cat jumper can make chilly walks or outdoor time much more comfortable.

  1. Create a Cozy Sleeping Spot

Some homes aren’t built with insulation or central heating in mind, which means indoor temps can drop fast. Make sure your dog or cat has a warm, cushioned bed away from tiles, floorboards, or draughty doorways. Add fleece blankets or invest in a heated pet bed—especially helpful for older pets with arthritis.

  1. Limit Exposure to the Cold

Even in more temperate, it’s smart to adjust outdoor time during colder months. Keep walks shorter in the early morning or after sundown when it’s coldest. For cats, reduce time outdoors during damp or windy days, and encourage indoor play to keep them active.

  1. Keep their Skin and Coat Clean

During colder months, bathing may be less frequent. To keep your pet’s skin and coat pleasantly fragranced and hydrated use Aloveen Oatmeal Intensive Conditioner in between baths. When bathing your pet during winter, ensure you do it inside and use warm water. Make sure your pet is dry before putting them back outside; ideally perform the bath during the warmest part of the day.

  1. Watch for Subtle Signs of Cold Stress

Shivering, lethargy, or constant curling up could mean your pet is feeling the chill. Don’t overlook the signs—bring them into a warmer space and monitor their comfort closely. If your pet is older or has health concerns, consult your vet for additional winter care tips.

Keep Your Pet Warm and Snug This Season

Winter whether mild or freezing calls for thoughtful pet care. With the right adjustments, you can keep your furry friend warm, healthy, and happy no matter where you live.

🐾 Download our free Winter Pet Checklist