Medication for a Scratching Dog
There are many factors that can cause a dog to itch and scratch. Often this itching can make a dog miserable, leading to distress that can, in some cases, make the dog more susceptible to other ailments. Owners frequently wish to know how to treat their dogs, and what medication will best help alleviate this itching and scratching.
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Fleas
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One of the most common causes of an itchy dog is fleas. Their bites are irritating, and dogs can become allergic to flea saliva, making them itch even when not being bitten. This can get so bad that some dogs' fur falls out from the constant scratching and irritation. Luckily, flea medication for dogs is both effective and easy-to-use. You can get products such as Frontline and Advantix over-the-counter. If you prefer something stronger, or would rather give your dog a pill, your veterinarian can prescribe various medications such as Sentinel or Revolution. Owners also can buy dog shampoos specifically formulated to fight fleas and itching caused by fleas.
Hot Spots
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Hot spots, or acute moist dermatitis, can be caused by any number of factors incleduing fleas, infection and even high temperatures. Hot spots present as itching lesions that only become worse as the dog continues to scratch. According to PetPlace.com, chlorhexidine and Burrow's solution are often administered to diminish hot spots. If the hot spots were caused by any sort of infection, this infection must be treated with the appropriate medication to completely resolve the issue.
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Mange
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Three types of mites cause mange in dogs. These mites cause intense itchiness and sometimes loss of fur, and some can even spread to humans. It's important for owners to find treatment as soon as possible. According to DogChatForum.com, once a veterinarian has diagnosed mange, he will treat it with Ivermectin injections, though this treatment is often not recommend for herding breeds.
Allergies
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Just like humans, dogs can become allergic to many things. These may include mold, household cleansers, even their food. These allergies can often present themselves through itchiness and scratching. The medication Atopica works well on many dogs. A vet also might recommend antihistamines or cortisone.
Neurogenic Dermatitis
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Simply put, neurogenic dermatitis just means that "it's all in the dog's head." In such cases, there is no physical reason for the dog to scratch at a certain area--he simply does. In such cases, an owner can take his dog to a behavior specialist, who can help find any underlying problems that might be causing the scratching. Sometimes, a dog can suffer from things like separation anxiety, and medications can be prescribed to reduce this feeling in dogs.
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References
- Photo Credit dog image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
