a vet answered
Dog itching her belly raw and oozing: can Benadryl help, and how to protect the spot while I'm at work?
What they asked
Hi! I have a 6-year-old, 45-pound female dog who has been experiencing intense itching. She has scratched a golf-ball-sized area on her stomach completely raw. There’s no hair left on the spot, and it’s red and slightly oozing. She seems comfortable otherwise, but she scratches intensely with her back paw. I’m concerned about a possible flea allergy. Her next flea treatment is due November 7. I have to work a 10-hour shift tomorrow and am worried she’ll make the wound worse while I’m gone. What can I safely use to relieve her itching quickly? Would plain Benadryl be appropriate, and what dose would you recommend? Is there anything else I can do to protect the wound while I’m away?
Sorry to hear about your dog. That is pretty intense itching. Flea allergy normally manifests as backend itching and hair loss. Stomach could be an environmental allergy or food allergy related. You can try to put a tight fitting shirt to protect that area. There are topical benadryl sprays and oral benadryl you can give at your discretion. You need to speak with your veterinarian on a dose if giving medications. The severity of the "hot-spot" likely requires prescription medication for relief.
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