Fleas, ticks and other allergies can cause itching and discomfort to dogs. These parasites feed off the blood of humans and animals and the bites are intensely itchy. There are a number of warning signs to look out for. The dog is constantly scratching, biting his skin or shaking his ears.
When noticing incessant scratching it is important to deal with the situation as soon as possible as hot spots will occur. These painful hot spots come about when the dog is persistently scratching and biting, continuing until an area is a raw open sore and healing is not allowed because of the constant licking. This open wound very soon gets bigger, is very sensitive and is prone to infection.
Non Prescription medications are available from the local pharmacies and these include anaesthetic creams and a multitude of flea killing products. But in severe cases a veterinarian should be visited where the dog can be treated professionally. He will subscribe medications to help dry out the wound and control the itching.
The area around the wound should be shaved, clipped and, ideally, left open to help with the healing process. A neck collar can be positioned on the dog to put a stop to the licking. These are molded like a lampshade and it is difficult for the dog to get hold of the wound as the collar surrounds the head.
If the wound is on the leg, applying a cream with a bitter taste could discourage the dog from licking the wound. Covering the wound with a bandage would only lead to the dog trying to chew it off causing more irritation to the wound.
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