March 27, 2012
Posted in Pet Health, Pet Meds, Pet Supplies

Is your dog scratching more than usual? No one blinks an eye when they see their dog scratching its collar or behind its ears, but if your dog seems to be doing this constantly, you might need to intervene with certain pet products.

Your dog's nails do a great job relieving an itch caused by debris or whatever else may result in itchiness, but if the itch is caused by some sort of infection, scratching can cause the bacteria to spread. Dogs that are not yet on flea and tick preventative pet drugs like Revolution or Sentinel might have an allergic reaction to fleas. These areas can become inflamed if your pooch takes to it with its paws. There are several options owners can choose from not matter what is causing the dog's itch.

Shampoos. One way to cure many itches is to take the dog to the tub. Skin that is simply dry and itchy can be cured with moisturizing pet shampoo like Oatmeal & Aloe Vera Shampoo. Bacterial and fungal infections that cause scratching can be cleared up with shampoo like Keto Chlor, while you can get rid of bothersome fleas with Be Flea Free Shampoo. Allergic reactions might be relieved with Allermyl Shampoo, since it has natural anti-inflammatory ingredients and fatty acids to heal the skin.

Sprays. There are a number of sprays on the market to relieve all types of itching. These topical treatments often provide instant relief for itchy dogs. Be Soothed Tea Tree Oil Skin Relief Spray has tea tree oil to heal and soothe itchy skin caused by fungus, bacteria, inflamed skin, insect bites or hot spots. Others, like Excel Hydrocortisone Spray are also good for itching caused by bug bites or other minor skin irritations.

Medication. If your dog is on flea and tick preventatives, you don't need to do much more to protect it from flea bites. However, if your pooch has a major skin infection or allergic skin reaction that shampoos and sprays are not healing, your vet may prescribe medication. Prednisone or Hydroxyzine Pamoate may be given to treat allergic reactions, while drugs like Triamcinolone might be necessary to clear up various other skin conditions. 

Related posts:

1. How to relieve your dog’s itching – naturally!
2. How to prevent hot spots this spring
3. When ear scratching is too much
4. Managing your dog’s reaction to fleas
5. Best pet shampoo ingredients for allergies