SCRATCH, SCRATCH, SCRATCH, ITCH, ITCH, ITCH...

Have you ever been awakened in the middle of the night from the sound of your pet's constant scratching? Are you constantly telling your dog to stop scratching? Do you have hair all over your house from your pet's constant itching and scratching? If so, your pet may be suffering from allergies.

What is making my dog so itchy? You may ask.

It is a simple question without an easy answer. Many conditions can cause your dog to itch including food allergies, flea allergies, parasites, bacterial or yeast infections. Like humans, dogs can also be allergic to environmental substances like pollen, mold and dust mites. This type of allergy is called canine atopic dermatitis or atopy.

If your dog is:

• Scratching around the clock
• Chewing his paws
• Gnawing at his skin
• Rubbing at the face                                                           
• Suffering from skin infections and lesions
• Losing hair
• Getting smelly, flaky skin
• Keeping you awake all night

Your dog may be suffering from atopic dermatitis, a common allergic skin disease in dogs. Atopic dogs can become so miserable that they no longer enjoy life because of the constant itching and scratching. Sometimes atopy can occur together with other allergies such as a flea or food allergy. It is understandable that you want a quick solution. However, to ensure your dog is being treated for the right condition, your veterinarian will conduct a complete work up which may include a detailed history, physical exam and diagnostic testing. If your dog is diagnosed with atopic dermatitis your veterinarian has an advanced treatment option that can help restore your dogs’ quality of life. So see your veterinarian and ensure a good nights sleep for you and your pet. Contact Ark today.

>>MORE NEWS...