Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 9/11/2009

Question
I have a female white German Shepard approx 6 yrs old who has persistent itching on both sides of her body near and around her hips. I have taken her to the vet many times and have not really found the cause. We did find that she has a thyroid problem and has been taking meds to correct for about a year. last check was about normal. she scratches and bites to the point that she causes little sores. Any suggestions??

Answer
She is probably allergic to something.  Ask your vet to give her a shot of Dexamethasone.  Wait a week and if the itching goes away, then is is probably allergic.  The itching will return when the shot wears off.  Then I recommend Dexamethasone tablets.

If the itching does not go away, then it could be an infection or some type of parasite.