How do you treat itchy skin on dogs

When we see the dog scratching its skin with its paws frequently, rubbing on the ground constantly, and even scratching the skin until it bleeds, with its originally smooth and soft fur becoming messy and its eyes full of pain and restlessness, the worry and distress in our hearts well up instantly. It can't speak and can only express its discomfort in this way, and we are eager to find an effective treatment method to help it get rid of the torment of itching and regain its healthy and lively appearance. The reasons behind a dog's skin itching are complex and diverse. To achieve effective treatment, not only professional medical knowledge is needed, but also our meticulous love and patience for it.

Parasitic infections are one of the common causes of a dog's skin itching. Parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites will parasitize on the surface of the dog's skin or in the hair follicles. Their bites and secretions will irritate the skin, causing intense itching. Fleas have extremely strong reproductive ability. One flea can lay a large number of eggs in a short time, making the dog's itching problem more serious. When we part the dog's fur and see the black flea droppings or find ticks firmly attached to its skin, our hearts are filled with anger and distress, and we wish we could get rid of these parasites immediately. To treat skin itching caused by parasites, the primary task is to deworm. External deworming drops can be used. Apply the medicine to parts of the dog's body that are not easily licked, such as the back of the neck, so that the medicine can be absorbed through the skin and kill the parasites. Oral deworming medicine can also be selected, and calculate the dosage accurately according to the dog's weight and age. At the same time, thoroughly clean and disinfect the dog's living environment, wash its bedding and toys, and use insecticides to treat the surrounding environment to prevent the parasites from breeding again.

Fungal and bacterial infections can also cause a dog's skin itching. Common fungal skin diseases such as ringworm infection can cause circular or oval hair loss and erythema on the dog's skin, with scales covering the surface and an unpleasant odor. Bacterial infections can lead to pyoderma, with symptoms such as pustules and ulcers on the skin. These infections not only make the dog itch unbearably but also affect its appearance and health. To treat fungal and bacterial infections, antifungal or antibacterial drugs are usually needed. Topical ointments or lotions can act directly on the infected area to inhibit the growth of pathogens. In severe cases, oral medications may be required for systemic treatment. When applying the ointment or using the lotion, the dog may resist due to discomfort. We can only soothe it softly and operate carefully. Every application is filled with our distress and love for it, and we hope that these drugs can take effect quickly and make it free from the pain of the disease.

Allergies are also an important cause of a dog's skin itching. Dogs may be allergic to food, pollen, dust mites, certain chemicals, etc. After coming into contact with the allergen, the immune system will overreact and release substances such as histamine, causing symptoms such as redness, swelling, and itching of the skin. Some dogs are allergic to specific food ingredients, such as beef, chicken, grains, etc. Once they eat these, it will trigger skin itching. The key to treating skin itching caused by allergies is to find and avoid the allergen. The food exclusion method can be used to change the dog's food one by one and observe its reaction to determine if there is a food allergy. For allergens in the environment, try to keep the home clean, regularly wash the dog's supplies, and use an air purifier to reduce allergens such as pollen and dust mites. When necessary, anti-allergy drugs such as antihistamines can be used to relieve the dog's itching symptoms. Watching the dog feel uncomfortable due to allergies, we are even more anxious than when we are sick ourselves, and we hope to find the allergen as soon as possible and keep it away from the trouble of itching.

In addition to the above reasons, factors such as dry skin and endocrine disorders can also cause a dog's skin itching. If the dog's skin lacks moisture and becomes dry and rough, it is prone to itching. At this time, moisturizing skin care products for pets, such as moisturizing sprays and emollients, can be used. At the same time, adjust the diet and increase foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and flaxseeds, to help improve the skin condition. Endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism and hyperadrenocorticism, can also affect the normal metabolism of the skin and cause itching. For such situations, take the dog to the pet hospital for a detailed examination. After identifying the cause of the disease, carry out targeted treatment under the guidance of a veterinarian, which may involve using drugs to regulate the endocrine level.

During the treatment of a dog's skin itching, nursing work is crucial. Keep the dog's skin clean, but do not bathe it excessively. Frequent bathing will disrupt the oil balance of the skin and aggravate the itching symptoms. Generally, bathe the dog 1 - 2 times a week in summer and 1 time every 2 - 3 weeks in winter, and use a mild pet-specific shampoo. After bathing, dry the fur thoroughly to prevent bacteria and fungi from breeding in a humid environment. At the same time, put an Elizabethan collar on the dog to prevent it from scratching or licking the affected area and affecting the treatment effect. Watching the dog wearing the Elizabethan collar, moving inconveniently but still looking at us trustingly, we are deeply touched and more determined to cure it.

Treating a dog's skin itching is a "battle" full of love and responsibility. From finding the cause of the disease, choosing the treatment method to careful nursing, every link embodies our deep concern and love for the dog. When we see the dog gradually stop scratching, its skin gradually recover to health, and it starts to play happily again, all our efforts turn into full relief and happiness. Because in our hearts, the dog's health and happiness are the most precious gifts, worthy of our protection for every detail of its life with professional knowledge and endless love.