(What to Expect and How We Can Help)

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📝 What We’ll Ask You

Your vet team will need some background information. Be ready to answer questions like:

• When did you first notice the itching?
• Is your dog scratching everywhere or just in certain spots?
• When was the last flea/tick treatment, and what brand was it? (Tip: bring the package if you bought it elsewhere!)
• When was their last bath?
• Are any other pets or people in your home itchy?
• What food, treats, or snacks does your dog eat daily?
• Any recent changes in food, treats, or environment?

🩺 The Physical Exam

Your veterinarian will:

• Check your dog’s whole body, especially ears, skin folds, paws, and nails.
• Look for fleas, flea dirt, or hair loss.
• Look at any red, bumpy, scaly, or sore spots.

🔬 Common Tests We May Do

Depending on what we see, we may recommend some simple tests:

🦠 Testing for Bacteria or Yeast

• Swabs from ears or skin.
• Tape or slide pressed on skin.
• Samples checked under a microscope.
• Sometimes samples are sent to a lab for exact identification.

🪳 Testing for Parasites or Ringworm

• Skin scraping (gentle removal of skin cells).
• Hair plucking (for fungal cultures or parasite checks).
• Dogs usually tolerate these very well (treats help!).

🧪 Other Testing (if needed)

• Bloodwork (e.g., thyroid testing).
• Food trial (special diet for 6–8 weeks).
• Skin biopsy (tiny piece of skin checked under the microscope).

💊 Treatment Plan

Once we know what’s going on, treatment may include:

• Anti-itch medicine (pill, liquid, or injection).
• Antibiotics or antifungal meds (pills, ointments, ear drops).
• Medicated shampoos.
• Supplements or special diets.

Even if we don’t have all the answers yet, we’ll start helping your dog feel better right away!

👩‍⚕️ When a Specialist is Needed

Sometimes skin problems are more complex. In those cases, we may recommend a veterinary dermatologist (a skin specialist for pets). They’ll work with your regular vet to find the best long-term plan.

📅 Ongoing Care for Itchy Dogs

Most itchy skin problems are chronic (long-term) and need regular care. The good news: with the right plan, we can keep your dog comfortable!

Your vet team will help you with:

• Medication schedules.
• Bathing routines.
• Food and treat recommendations.
• Long-term monitoring.

❤️ Remember:

Your dog’s comfort is our priority. Itchy skin can be frustrating, but with teamwork between you, your vet, and your dog, we can help them live a happy, itch-free life!