I'm feeling pretty overwhelmed and really need some advice. I have a small pack of three dogs, and last week I noticed a rash developing on Benny, my oldest. I thought it was just a reaction to something in the yard, but now it’s spreading to the other two, Lucy and Max. The rash looks like small, red bumps, almost like hives, and they're all scratching like crazy. I’ve made an appointment with the vet, but it’s a couple of days away, and I’m worried it'll get worse by then. I haven’t changed their food or used any new products that I know of, so I’m scratching my head here (pun not intended!). I’d really appreciate any advice or tips on how to keep them comfortable or prevent this from getting worse until we can get to the vet. Thanks a bunch in advance!
Hello! I’m sorry to hear about the rash troubling your dogs. It’s always a worry when our furry friends are uncomfortable. Let’s talk about what might be happening.
A rash that spreads among dogs in the same household could be due to several reasons. One common cause is a contagious skin infection, such as a fungal infection (like ringworm) or bacterial infections. Parasites such as fleas, mites, or ticks can also be passed between dogs and cause skin issues.
Allergies, either environmental or food-related, can cause rashes, though these are less likely to spread between dogs directly. It’s important to check if anything in the environment, including new cleaning products or plants, might be recent changes that could affect their skin.
For at-home care, make sure to keep your dog’s skin clean and dry. You might gently bathe them using a mild, hypoallergenic pet shampoo. However, avoid self-medicating with over-the-counter creams as some human products can be harmful to pets.
Keep a close eye on any signs of a more serious problem, such as the rash becoming very red, swollen, or producing pus. Increased itching, changes in behavior, or signs of discomfort are also red flags.
If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to seek veterinary advice. I’d recommend setting up a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can personalize the care your dogs need.
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