Help, I’m really worried about my dog and could use some advice. Yesterday, I noticed he was scratching a lot more than usual, and today, when I checked his back, I saw raw, bleeding patches on his skin. It looks so painful, and I'm worried it might be something serious like eczema, but I’m not sure. He’s always had sensitive skin, but it's never been this bad. I’ve booked a vet appointment, but it’s not until next week. In the meantime, is there anything safe I can do to help soothe his skin or stop him from scratching so much? I just hate seeing him in discomfort, and I'm feeling really helpless right now. Any advice from other pet parents who’ve dealt with something like this would be incredibly appreciated!
Thank you for reaching out with your concern. I'm sorry to hear about your dog’s skin issue. What you're describing could potentially be due to several causes, including eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis), but it's important to consider other possibilities too.
Eczema in dogs is often linked to environmental allergies, food sensitivities, or even parasites like fleas. However, raw bleeding skin may also result from a bacterial or fungal infection, injury, or a reaction to a new grooming product or diet.
For at-home care, you can gently clean the affected area with a mild, pet-safe antiseptic solution to prevent infection. Ensure that your dog isn't scratching the area further; using an Elizabethan collar (or “cone”) can help with this. Keeping your dog's nails trimmed short will also reduce the risk of further injury to the skin.
Watch for any worsening signs such as increased redness, an unpleasant odor, pus, or if your dog seems significantly more uncomfortable or lethargic. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires urgent veterinary assessment.
It would be a great idea to book a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. This will allow us to gather more information and advise you on the best next steps to help your furry friend feel better.
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