Itchy dogs======================================================================What can I do about dog's persistent itch?12:00 AM CDT on Monday, October 16, 2006 Shawn Messonnier What can I do about dog's persistent itch?12:00 AM CDT on Monday, October 16, 2006 Shawn Messonnier Dear Dr. Shawn: My dog is scratching a lot on her belly and chest. She also has some raw areas from scratching and chewing. What can I put on the spots or to alleviate the itching? Will bathing help? What should I use?Answer: It sounds like she has some sort of allergic dermatitis. I approach these cases by treating the pet topically and locally, as well as systemically (treating her orally to help her heal so she stops itching.) Bathing is important; the more the better. A shampoo containing ingredients such as aloe vera and colloidal oatmeal is very helpful to control itching and inflammation. Try to bathe her every one to two days to control itching. Aloe vera ointment or lotion is also helpful on the raw areas. Systemically, she will need a good natural diet plus supplements to decrease her itchiness. Supplements can include a health-maintenance formula, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, herbs and homeopathics. If really needed, medications such as prednisone or an antihistamine can be used for a few days without harming her. Most of the pets I see with allergies respond very well to this natural approach, though success doesn't come overnight. Send questions to Dr. Shawn Messonnier at Paws & Claws Animal Hospital, 2145 W. Park, Plano, TX 75075 or naturalvet@ juno.com. Visit him at www.pet carenaturally.com.