Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 10/25/2005

Question
Hi, I have two older american cocker spaniels.  They are both constantly chewing at their skin this time of year.  I have tried low doses of benadryl but it doesn't really do it.  Is there something else that I can do to help relieve them of this discomfort?

Answer
Benadryl is almost useless in dog skin allergies.  You need to get the dogs on a short course of cortisone to give them some immediate relief from their itching and bathe them often to remove allergens.  Other things like dietary Omega3 fatty acids may help.  Ask your vet how he/she treats allergies in your area.