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My border collie itches himself constantly and has red scabed patches under his armpits... he has to stop all the time to itch himself. We don't have fleas here. We have already switched his food and have started him on fish oils. Should I take him to a vet?

My border collie itches himself constantly and has red scabed patches under his armpits... he has to stop all the time to itch himself. We don't have fleas here. We have already switched his food and have started him on fish oils. Should I take him to a vet?

Updated On August 7th, 2017

Pet's info: Dog | Border Collie | Male | 6 years and 6 months old | 55 lbs

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

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Hi, thanks for using Petcoach!

Poor Bo! You are describing a very itchy dog! I think he would benefit by being seen by your Vet. There are many other causes for severe scratching that aren't from fleas or food allergies: allergic reaction, yeast or bacterial infection or scabies (a contagious mite).

Your Vet may do a skin scrape to rule out mites Then prescribe something to relieve the scratching, possibly an antibiotic or a medicated shampoo.

Good luck!

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