Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 12/26/2008

Question
My mothers 7-1/2 year old Collie has developed sever itching and has practically scratched most of his coat off. He scratches until he bleeds and scabs. He has no dandruff flaking, no visible rash or signs of fleas. We have treated the home, the yard, and the animals all at the same time to ensure there is not a flea infestation. He has had itching issues before but they were treated with Benadryl. It seems to be worse in the winter and this winter is worse than it has ever been. We have tried different types of shampoo for itching and dermatitis. We are at our wits end and feel so bad for our beloved pet.  Please help.

Answer
Benadryl is not good for dogs that itch.  There just is not much histamine in the chronic skin problems that dogs get.  If the dog is worse in the winter, it could be dry skin from a fatty acid deficiency, allergy to something in the house, or even something like sarcoptic mange (Scabies).  I would have you ask your vet to treat for scabies with a special insecticidal dip.  Stay away from the ivermectin treatments for scabies in a Collie. I woudl also add an Omega3 fatty acid supplement to the diet, and get the dog on some steroids to control the itching.  Many dogs like this also have a bacterial or yeast infection that makes the skin problem worse.  LEt the vet check that, too.