Excessive Scratching
Dogs suffer from itches just like humans, and just like us, they have the urge to scratch. In some cases, it can become so bad that a dog may actually injure himself to alleviate the itch—not knowing any better. There are hundreds of reasons—from allergies to disease—that might make dogs want to scratch. Therefore, it is important to do some detective work regarding why your pet is scratching.
Excessive Scratching Symptoms
As a pet owner, it might be tempting to ease the annoyance or pain by scratching the problem area yourself—don’t do it. Scratching just makes it worse. Here are the most common reasons canines will scratch:
- Fleas
- Airborne allergens like pollen, which result in hay fever
- Parasites, such as ear mites, scabies, or cheyletiellosis (i.e. walking dandruff)
- Bacterial skin infections
- Ticks and lice
- Food allergies
- Fungal infections, including yeast infections
- Seborrhea
- Contact allergies
- Whole-body illnesses, such as liver disease, immune-system problems and some cancers
Excessive Scratching Treatment
Depending on the reason for the itch, there are many forms of treatment. National Pet Pharmacy carries a variety of food and natural supplements that will help. For example, Hill's Prescription Diet d/d Potato & Duck Formula Canine Dry Food has been shown to help pets with a variety of inflammatory skin conditions due to its rich Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. A quick, natural way to alleviate itch is to regularly bathe your pet in cool water (warm water will make the itch worse). Adding Epsom salts, baking soda, or colloidal oatmeal to the water will increase the soothing effects, though the bath only relieves a pet for a few hours to a few days. Consult your veterinarian if itching persists and he/she may offer other suggestions such as antihistamines.
About National Pet Pharmacy
National Pet Pharmacy is your pet health superstore. From prescription only pet medications to organic dog food, National Pet Pharmacy knows that pet health is more than just medicine; it is pet supplies, pet beds and pet food. From nose to tail, National Pet Pharmacy cares for your whole pet.
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