Itch Relief Information For Dogs

We recommend reading the following articles on Veterinary partners :

Itching and Allergy in Dogs – Veterinary Partner – VIN
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952662

Allergies: Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs and Cats – Veterinary Partner – VIN
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=254086&id=4951475&ind=6&objTypeID=1007

Food Allergies in Dogs and Cats – Veterinary Partner – VIN
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=254055&id=4951526&ind=755&objTypeID=1007

Itch Relief for Dogs and Cats – Veterinary Partner – VIN
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951477

Food Elimination Diet

To test for food allergies, we carry Royal Canin Allergenic dry food. This is the most allergenic diet you can find as the molecules are reduced to the smallest amino acid. It is also formulated to support the skin’s natural protective barrier for optimal skin health.

The duration of a dermatologic dietary elimination trial is 6-8 weeks and ideally up to 12 weeks. In most cases, improvement occurs in the first 6–8 weeks while maximum improvement and resolution of
clinical signs may take 12 weeks or occasionally longer.

Do not offer treats, snacks, human foods, flavored medications or foods to hide medications, flavored toothpaste or nutritional supplements during the dietary elimination trial.

In cases of chronic disease, it may be necessary and beneficial to feed this diet for the rest of the pet’s life or until other conditions require a dietary change.

If there is improvement or resolution after the elimination diet, you may consider moving to an hydrolyzed diet (Royal Canin HP / Hills z/d) or a novel protein diet (Royal Canin PD / Rayne Kangaroo-Maint or Rabbit-Maint / Hills d/d)

Diet transition steps

• Measure what you are currently feeding in a standard measuring cup of the closest size (i.e. 1/3 cup measuring cup). You will keep feeding this amount as the total as you go forward with transitioning over the next 5 to 10 days.
• For the first 2 days, put a layer of the new food in the bottom of the measuring cup, roughly 10%, then add the rest of the previous diet.
• For the next 2 days, fill the measuring cup 20% to 40% with the new food and fill with the previous diet.
• The following 2 days, fill the measuring cup 40% to 60% of the new food and fill with the previous diet.
• The following 2 days, fill the measuring cup 60% to 80% of the new food and fill with the previous diet.
• The following 2 days, fill the measuring cup 80% to 100% of the new food and fill with the previous diet.
• Then feed only the new diet.

Omega 3s

Dr. Amber strongly suggest adding Omega 3s to your dog’s diet to promote healthy skin barrier.

Certain dietary fats, typically from cold-water fish oils, have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. While this finding has primarily been used to treat itchy skin, many arthritic dogs and cats have also benefited from it. While there are no toxic issues to be concerned with, these products require at least one month to build up to adequate amounts. Effects are not always dramatic but can be helpful long-term.

Introduce Omega-3’s in diet gradually. They can help with dry coat/dandruff, support heart, liver, kidney, brain cognition, joints and minimize arthritis. Make sure to slowly work up to full dosage over a couple of weeks. If added into diet too quickly can cause loose stool.

Caution about flax seed oil: It should be noted that flax seed oil is readily converted to omega-three fatty acids in the human body. This conversion is not so easy in the canine or feline body (only about 10 percent of the oil is converted). It is somewhat wasteful to add flax seed oil to pet food; fish oils are needed. Numerous brands are available and the chances are your veterinarian stocks one.

Shampoo Therapy

Shampoo therapy is one of the most recommended treatment by Doctor Amber for itchy skin. When you come for your pet’s consultation, you will most likely leave with a prescription medicamented shampoo.

See our other blog on shampoo therapy for a complete guide on how to get the best results from this treatment.

Reducing Dust Mites

Dust Mites: Minimizing Exposure in Dogs and Cats – Veterinary Partner – VIN
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&catId=254086&id=4951977&ind=11&objTypeID=1007

House dust mites are microscopic bugs that are in every homes, and some pets are allergic to them. A house dust mite allergy IS NOT a sign of a dirty home. Homes with carpeting will always have some dust mites.

Here are some tips to reduce dust mites:

• They tend to accumulate more in mattress and beds, so if possible keep your pet off the bed.
• Feather pillows should not be used.
• Wash your pet’s bedding weekly and heat-dry if possible. If possible, replace bedding every 6 months.
• Stuff toys should be washed and heat-dried weekly.
• If possible, remove carpeting or wash area rugs weekly.