Why is my pet's neck raw and bleeding from constant scratching?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

  Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

  Published on February 22nd, 2020

  Intense itching can have multiple causes, including fleas, ticks, ear mites, ear infection, anxiety, bladder issues, etc. Since the skin is bleeding and could become infected, I would recommend having Spazzy examined by a vet. The vet may need to treat the skin in addition to the initial cause for the itching to occur.

  

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• Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

  Veterinarian

  Published on October 21st, 2019

  Hi, and thanks for your question. This could be due to an allergy, although it could also be infection or mites. First of all, in order to rule out skin parasites, you will need to treat with a high quality flea treatment, then ask the vet to perform a skin scrape - this might reveal an infection or a mite infestation. If all of those came back negative, the next step is to treat the allergy symptomatically and try to discover the cause of the allergy. Three main type of allergies are usually affecting pets: food allergies, flea and parasite related ones and environmental type (allergens coming from trees, pollens, dust etc etc). Some medications can be given by the vet in order to repair any possible skin lesions (like steroids and antibiotics). Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

  

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• Answered By Ana M, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on June 10th, 2018

  Thank you for submitting your question regarding Harley. I am sorry to hear that he is so itchy! Allergies are a very common problem this time of year. This is even more likely if he was even a little bit itchy this time last year. Fleas will also make a dog as can food or contact allergies. Skin infections will have the same result. I would start by bathing him with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner such as an oatmeal or fatty acid based formula to give him some relief. He will need to see his veterinarian though. He may require skin tests to rule out ringworm or mites. If these tests are both negative, then allergies are more likely. He will most likely need an antibiotic and a medication to control the itch. There are several new allergy medications available for itchy dogs. They are extremely effective. Apoquel is a tablet that is given once or twice daily. Cytopoint is an injection given every 4-8 weeks. You can ask your veterinarian if either of these would be appropriate for Harley. I hope this information helps!

  

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• Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

  Licensed Veterinary Technician

  Published on January 6th, 2017

  The first thing to rule out would be fleas. Even though he doesn't go out, fleas can come inside on you or on small mammals such as mice. Check him over for live fleas or fleas dirt. This will be black specks like pepper. Rub them on a moistened cotton ball and you will get rust colored streaks. This is digested blood. Treat with a topical preventative for at least 3 consecutive months, preferably year round. You will also need to treat the environment for fleas to prevent reinfestation.
  Allergies are also a concern. They can be difficult and frustrating to diagnose, so you will likely need to see your vet for an exam. Consider adding an essential fatty acid supplement (usually a fish oil) to his diet to promote healthy skin. Search www.pet360.com for fish oil supplements such as DermCaps or EicosaCaps. If allergies are diagnosed, your task is to try to determine what he is allergic to and decrease or eliminate it. Discuss food elimination trials, hydrolyzed diets and allergy testing with your vet.
  At this time of year, dry air can cause dry, itchy skin. Use a humidifier in the house and see if that helps.

  

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