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fleas???


Sent to Pet Experts August 14, 2005 8:04 p.m.

I have two dogs, an aussie and a jack russel both have been itching so bad that they are itching themselves raw. I have tried everything I can think of. From flea baths to sprays to shots for the itching but nothing seems to help. Any suggestions would be wonderful and my dogs would love it to.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $5   
Answer
August 14, 2005 8:06 p.m. (1 minute and 42 seconds later)
REPLIED Check Mark

It sounds like your pet might be suffering from allergies.

There are some simple things you can do if your dog might be suffering from allergies.

I would talk with the vet about a different low allergy diet, one that will have the least reaction. Rabbit and potato is good, but you can choose another brand. Try steering clear of brands that have corn.

You should also get her on a flea preventative if she is not already. Even if you don't see fleas, it only takes one to get the cycle started.

I would also use a prescribed dose of benadryl, especially during allergy season. My vet recommends 1 mg per lb of body weight given every 8-12 hours.

Keep in mind that dogs can have allergies to pollen, dust and other household allergens so you should evaluate your home and try to make it as allergy free as you possibly can for her.

It sounds like the dog might also have a secondary bacterial or fungal infection. This is usually secondary to allergies and itching. This means that the secondary problem is caused by the primary.

When dogs scratch, they abrade the skin and allow bacterial and funguses to enter the skin. The result is a bacterial or fungal infection. This is what causes the smell.

You need to see the vet so that they can get a culture and tell you what kind of treatment is necessary.

While you are there, you should also speak with the vet about a supplement that has omega three fatty acids. Good skin starts from the inside out and this can be very beneficial.

Thyroid conditions can also cause hair loss so you will want to see the vet to rule this out if the condition persists.

I would also be concerned about ringworm and other fungal problem so be sure and keep a close eye on it.

Let me know if you still have specific questions about this.

PictureTammy F.  -- Pet Care Expert -- 99% Positive Feedback on 5064 Pet Accepts
15+ years-Pet care, Veterinary shelter medicine and infectious disease, Behavior training, Rescue
Reply to Tammy Falkner
Sent August 15, 2005 9:25 a.m. (13 hours and 19 minutes later)

I have had them both to vet. They are on heartworm w/flea. I have fogged the house for fleas. They have both had flea baths and the yard has been treated. What else can I do? Diane
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
August 15, 2005 10:05 a.m. (39 minutes and 49 seconds later)
REPLIED Check Mark

I would follow the directions that I listed above in regards to a diet change. I would also talk with the vet about using an anti-histamine like benadryl or one that he can prescribe. The dogs might also benefit from a shot of prednisone to help control the itch and give skin time to heal.

Let me know if you want to discuss this further.

PictureTammy F.  -- Pet Care Expert -- 99% Positive Feedback on 5064 Pet Accepts
15+ years-Pet care, Veterinary shelter medicine and infectious disease, Behavior training, Rescue
Reply to Tammy Falkner
Sent August 15, 2005 2:13 p.m. (4 hours and 7 minutes later)

we have had the shot of predidone. havn't tried the anti histamine. thank you much for your time. Maybe the anti-histamine will work.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
August 15, 2005 2:44 p.m. (31 minutes and 27 seconds later)
ACCEPTED Check Mark

You are more than welcome! Glad that I could help. Don't forget to accept my answer if it was helpful to you.

PictureTammy F.  -- Pet Care Expert -- 99% Positive Feedback on 5064 Pet Accepts
15+ years-Pet care, Veterinary shelter medicine and infectious disease, Behavior training, Rescue

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