my dog (small mix breed) has been scratching SOOO much, mostly near the base of his tail on all sides - I think it may be allergies. We use Hill Science diet food for sensitive skin, give him olive oil from time to time (recommended by our vet) and have tried benedryl - nothing works and I know he must be miserable - how can I relieve his itch ??
severe itchy skin
Posted on 2008/09/25 by User
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HarrySymptoms: itching & scratching -
Hi
Firstly you must empty his anal glands. To borrow from another advisor's answer regarding technique: put on gloves (essential), lubricate forefinger with KY-Jelly or vaseline petrolium jelly, insert forefinger about 1-2 cm into dog's anus (VERY GENTLY) while dog is restrained by assistant. Feel anal glands in 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions. Hold gland, leaving anal surface of gland uncovered and squeeze gently with cotton wool held against anus (and mouth closed!). Repeat on other side.
Then you must rule out mange by putting on an acaricidal (kills mites) spot-on treatment such as Revolution/Stronghold/Advocate.
That would rule out parasites, then you can think about allergies.
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