Itchy Dogs!

Vet surgeries frequently get members of the public coming in for advice as to which shampoo would be best to cure their dog of a chronic itch. While shampoos can often be useful as an extra treatment for skin ailments in addition to other medications, they are very rarely curative by themselves.

Veterinary staff often sell people medicated shampoos at a customer's insistence, usually after a customer has refused advice to have their itchy dog properly assessed by a veterinarian in a vain attempt to save money. This approach is often false economy as the dog usually fails to respond and extra money then has to be spent fixing the problem properly.

Many different ailments can cause a dog to be itchy. The most common can be broadly divided into parasitic, infectious or allergic with some crossover and combination often happening between the three groups. It is very important that a professional opinion be sought as treatments can vary widely and can even make things worse if incorrect or inappropriate medication is given.

A veterinarian will diagnose and treat your itchy dog in a logical and effective manner and this will be the most efficient and cost-effective way of relieving your dog's suffering in the long run. Modern veterinary practice means that, like our medical colleagues, vets even have the option of referring difficult cases to Veterinary Specialist Dermatologists nowadays.

If you care enough for your dog to go to vet surgery for treatment, please take the advice of the staff if it is suggested that a checkup would be a better option than simply buying shampoo. They are trying to do the best for your pet and saving you money in the long run.