“That Winter Itch”

I was wondering what to write about the other day when my dog came up next to me and shocked me.  Literally, because of the dry winter air and static electricity, Copper gave me a nice shock on my leg, and it occurred to me that we have been seeing an abundance of itchy dogs and even cats.

When a dog is itchy you know it – from the jangle of the tags on his collar at midnight as he is scratching to the incessant licking of his feet, a dog will let you know that they are uncomfortable.  Often in the winter, it is the dry air that may be the culprit, but people may forget that dogs can have allergies in the winter, too.  Those air ducts may be blowing out some molds that Fido can react to, or a change of food or shampoos may also bring on the itching.  If you see flakes, it could be dry skin, but it could also be eczema, seborrhea, or an infection.  If bathing with a mild SOAP FREE shampoo once a week (not Johnson’s Baby Shampoo – way to damaging to a dog’s skin) doesn’t help, you may need to bring your pooch in for a checkup.

Now whereas dogs let you know they are itchy, cats just look like they are grooming.  But if you find Fluffy licking non-stop, feel scabs on her when you’re petting her, or see bald spots on her belly, there may be something going on.  Cats can have environmental allergies just like people (and dogs), and that can lead to the above symptoms.  They may also have different conditions like Ringworm, Mange, or Lupus that can cause non-stop licking/grooming.  Cats sometimes may manifest anxiety as excessive grooming, and you’d be surprised what cats can get upset about.

Well hopefully that helps you if your four-legged friend seems itchy and flaky during these cold winter months.  As for me, I’m going to put some lotion on my dry hands and try not to get shocked by my dog, though my prankster daughters will probably find a way to shock me anyway!

Till next time,  Dr. Steve                                              www.ashburnanimals.com

p.s. remember to bring your cat or dog in the house on these cold days (and nights!)

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