At the vet - itchy dog steps and treatments

Dr Heidi

Once a vet has examined your dog and asked all the relevant questions the following steps will be taken to determine the cause of itch and conclude:

Steps taken to determine the cause of an itch

Step 1 - Rule out parasites

Parasites especially fleas can be the cause of itch in dogs. By administering a monthly treatment such as Simparica for dogs you effectively control the fleas on the dog and in this way prevent flea allergy dermatitis and control fleas in the environment. You will also ensure that ticks and mites are treated at the same time.

Step 2 - Treat skin infections

Infections can often be treated topically with a medicated shampoo, however, if the bacterial and/or yeast infections are of such a nature that systemic treatment is needed, your vet will prescribe a course of antibiotics and/or antifungals. You will need to complete the course to ensure that the infection is cured.

Step 3 - Conduct a food trial

This can take up to 8 weeks and the patient must remain strictly on a hypoallergenic diet recommended by your vet for the duration of the trial. NO treats, NO snacks, NO cheating.

Step 4 - Confirm atopic dermatitis

When other causes are ruled out, confirm atopic dermatitis. Best in class treatments are available and can be tailored to the patient and client’s lifestyle without compromising efficacy and safety.

What treatments are available for an itchy dog?

There are a number of treatment options for treating itchy dogs, but many of these have unwanted side effects, lack efficacy or have a delayed onset of action. Many of these side effects can seriously impact the patients’ and pet owners’ quality of life.

The good news is that Zoetis has brought new products to the market. Speak to your vet about these new treatments.

A new monthly injectable product containing a monoclonal antibody for the treatment of atopic dogs

Providing fast and effective relief of itch²
Improving the lives of dogs and their owners²
Can be used in dogs over 12 months of age weighing 3 kg in body weight and over
Not to be used in pregnant, lactating or breeding dogs

Your dog can enjoy a greater quality of life because of the immediate relief of itch and inflammation associated with these amazing new products on the market.

References

H. Moyaert et al. A three month, blinded, randomized clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of lokivetmab compared to ciclosporin in client owned dogs with atopic dermatitis. © 2017 ESVD and ACVD, Veterinary Dermatology, 28, 533–553.
Clinician’s Forum, Understanding Apoquel & Dispelling the Myths. Expert Views from a Roundtable on Apoquel.

Product Legals

For animal use only.
SIMPARICA 5 mg (chewable tablets for dogs). Reg. No.: G4317 (Act 36/1947). Each chewable tablet contains 5 mg sarolaner.
SIMPARICA 10 mg (chewable tablets for dogs). Reg. No.: G4322 (Act 36/1947). Each chewable tablet contains 10 mg sarolaner.
SIMPARICA 20 mg (chewable tablets for dogs). Reg. No.: G4318 (Act 36/1947). Each chewable tablet contains 20 mg sarolaner.
SIMPARICA 40 mg (chewable tablets for dogs). Reg. No.: G4319 (Act 36/1947). Each chewable tablet contains 40 mg sarolaner.
SIMPARICA 80 mg (chewable tablets for dogs). Reg. No.: G4320 (Act 36/1947). Each chewable tablet contains 80 mg sarolaner.
SIMPARICA 120 mg (chewable tablets for dogs). Reg. No.: G4321 (Act 36/1947). Each chewable tablet contains 120 mg sarolaner.
For “WARNINGS” refer to the approved package insert. For full prescribing information refer to the package insert approved by the medicines regulatory authority.

Bl The importance of a proper treatment plan

Resources

Resources

A Vet's Guide on Managing Your Dog's Skin Allergies blog

Resources

When itchy skin is a source of

Irritation

Give THEM