Hello all,

We are trying to find a way to help our 45lb English Bull Terrier get relief from itchy skin.

Can any one suggest how much of the liquid allergy formula (contains diphenhydramine hydrochloride, sold as Benadryl in Canada) is suitable for a dog of that weight? The off the shelf medicine is meant for humans but it has been suggested as being ok for dogs, too, so we thought we'd give it a try.

Last year, she had been licking and chewing her feet until the skin on her pads was torn so we took her to the vet, who provided antibiotic and a steroid (two visits in a period of about 5 months). He also suggested we wipe her feet after she was outside, which we did. She responded to that treatment but falls back awhile after the last dose of medicine.

However, we have maintained the feet washing which seems quite effective, but the itching has migrated to other parts of her body: under the jaw, behind the ears, undercarriage at the legs.

Your suggestions would be most welcome.

Thanks.

-- al

>it has been suggested as being ok for dogs

I would check with the vet

Hi AlCrout,

I am not sure how relevant it will be put a friends young dog has had exactly the same symptoms and after 18 months of scrapes, washing, powders, lotions etc etc it has come to light that he is severely allergic to several types of grass pollen.

It doesn't just happen in the Spring, it happens all year round and the specialist feels that that is why there is several types he is allergic to.

The only treatment that is working is an injection where I think (am not 100% sure without checking) that they use an injection with grass pollen in it to de sensitise him.. he has one a month and combined with Piriton it keeps the actual chewing of the feet, legs and undercarriage at bay. His skin is still pink and he suffers around his mouth and nose area which can get quite sore but is 100 times better than he was without the injections.

Just a thought...

Gabrielle

Stooge & Gabrielle,

Thank you both for your suggestions.

-- al