TO ITCH OR NOT TO ITCH-THAT IS THE QUESTION
At this time of the year, to itch or not to itch is a big question for some dogs. One of the seasonal reasons for this incessant itching is fleas or ticks. Every day thoroughly check your pet’s ears, eyes, neck and any other particularly vulnerable areas where these not so lovely pests would like to hide. If removing a tick, make sure to get the whole body of the tick using tweezers or a kit available from the vet. Proper treatment and collars will ensure these unwelcome guests will be under control.
There are however, other factors for dogs to be endlessly scratching, pulling at their feet, rubbing ears on the floor and having dry, scaly patches on their coats. Some of these factors are:
- Nutrition-some pets exhibit allergic reactions to particular foods-wheat, corn, grain products. Raw dog food can be an excellent option.
- Infections-itchy ears and eyes may be an indication of a yeast infection or other malady
- Airborne allergens-some dogs will react with itching and running noses to pollen, snow mold, carpet and other environmental influences
- Vaccine reactions-check this one out with your vet as some pets may need their shots adjusted
- Glandular/hormonal imbalances-severe imbalances can cause skin itching
Regardless of the cause, your pet is relying on you to help them stop the itch or not to itch cyle.
