How to Stop Uncontrollable Dog Itching
There are more than 500 reasons your dog may suffer unbearable itching, says the website Dog Breed Info. Because there are so many possible causes, it is important to consult your veterinarian to determine the problem and find a suitable solution. Fungal and parasitical infections are easily cleared up with medications, but uncontrollable itching may be a sign of a more serious disease. Your vet can help determine what course of action should be taken. In the meantime, there are a number of ways you can soothe your dog's itching.
Things You'll Need
- Scissors
- Antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream
- Antibiotic ointment
- Water
- Baking soda, Epsom salt or oatmeal
- Calendula extract, fish oil or vitamin E
- Fatty acids
Instructions
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Trim hair around affected areas. Trim the hair around the itchy area so that you can keep an eye on the area and watch for infection.
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Uncontrollable itching can be a sign of a serious problem. Apply an antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream. Check with your vet about proper dosage and specific instructions for the type of cream used. Your vet can also recommend an antibiotic cream for infections, if necessary.
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Calendula extract has antiseptic and soothing properties. Moisturize your dog's skin with calendula extract, fish oil or vitamin E. Apply calendula to the itchy spot directly and brush it through your dog's coat. Break open fish oil or vitamin E capsules and apply the liquid to the affected area. You can also add fish oil or vitamin E to your dog's food, reports The Daily Puppy.
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A good soak in a cool bath can ease itching. Give your dog a 10-minute soak in cool water. Add baking soda, Epsom salt or oatmeal to soothe uncontrollable itching. Pat your dog dry rather than rubbing it.
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Add fish oil to your dog's food. Add fatty acids to your dog's diet. Evening primrose oil and fish oil supplements can help reduce uncontrollable dog itching, according to the website Dog Breed Info Center. However, it may take several weeks for the effects to be noticed.
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Tips & Warnings
Never scratch your dog's itchy area. This will only increase the itchiness, says the website Dog Breed Info Center.
References
- Photo Credit dog image by Michal Tudek from Fotolia.com Beautiful Dog image by Stana from Fotolia.com dog face image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com calendula image by vebook from Fotolia.com snorkeling in the bath image by Ivonne Wierink from Fotolia.com Fish oil vitamins image by Stephen VanHorn from Fotolia.com
