Hello, My dog is scratching herself all over the body causing irritation and scars in her armpit area and belly, she also excessively bites and licks her paws. Should I be worried? Also should I seek professional advice on what's wrong with her or does she need medical attention?

Updated On April 9th, 2020

Pet's info: Dog | Staffordshire Bull Terrier | Female | 25 lbs

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

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Poor Navy! This scratching can be caused by fleas, mites, ringworm, or allergies. If she isn't up to date on her flea treatment, I can give you one for her. First, I would give her Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30 minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash her bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home. If she is up to date on her flea treatment, I recommend taking her into the vet for an exam tomorrow. The vet can do blood tests, skin scrapings, and use a Wood's lamp to diagnose allergies, mites, and ringworm. Once the cause of the itching is found, the vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment.

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