This is a common complaint at this time of year. Itch (or "pruritus" as it is known medically) can be a sign of many conditions. External parasites such as fleas are very commonly seen in the late summer/early fall period. Their bite is most often an annoyance to most dogs. However, in some animals, fleas can induce a severe hypersensitivity response which can be tremendously uncomfortable and lead to secondary infections (a condition called "flea allergy dermatitis"). Treatment usually revolves around flea control measures, but also can incorporate medications for itch and infections. Other external parasites such as mites and lice can also be responsible for itch. Since most of these critters are microscopic, it is important that your veterinarian perform diagnostic tests such as skin scrapings or plucks to diagnose these offenders.

Animals can have allergies to the same pollens, moulds and grasses that are common in their human counterparts. Respiratory signs are seen in a few cases, but the vast majority of allergic dogs will have itchy skin. Infections are also seen with great frequency - a consequence of hot, inflamed skin which allows the normal yeast and bacteria on the skin to overgrow. These secondary infections are themselves itchy, which adds to the problem. Many allergies have a seasonal component, which will recur year to year. However, some allergens, such as house dust mites, are present year-round and may be a source of non-seasonal itch for some dogs. Unfortunately, there is no "cure" for allergies. Depending on severity, anti-inflammatories, antihistamines, bathing, dietary supplements, or allergy vaccines may be used to aid control.

Dogs can also be allergic to components in their food, which presents as itchy skin in most pets. In the majority of cases, there has been no change in food at the onset of itchiness, which means the animal developed the allergy after months or years on the same brand of food. Simply changing brands tends to be unsuccessful in managing the itch, as offending components such as beef, chicken, milk products and egg are very common in many brands of food. To diagnose a food allergy, your veterinarian will likely advise a prescription commercially-prepared hypoallergenic diet, or give instructions for the preparation of a specially formulated homemade diet. It is important to feed the diet for 8 to 12 weeks exclusively (no bones, treats, human food or flavoured prescriptions AT ALL) during this period. If the itch resolves, basic components of the original diet are fed individually (ie. feed chicken one week, beef the next etc...). If and when the itch returns following this challenge, we can deduce which is inducing the allergy and avoid it in the future.

Most cases of itch in our pets can be treated successfully, though many times not cured. It is important to have your veterinarian assess your pet to determine the cause and best course of treatment to keep your four-legged friend comfortable.