Itchy Ears and losing hair

Question
I have a chihuahua that is constantly scratching his ears and has been losing hair for the last few weeks. I can honestly say that I have taken him to the vet and he said, "it was just an allergic reaction". I find that I am itchy as well and since he sleeps with me and on the couch with me what should I do?

Answer
Hi Lindsay,

Many times veterinary care starts with ruling out the "easy stuff", progressing to more aggressive treatments or diagnostic testing, if needed.

If you believe you may have caught something from your dog, you need to go back to your vet, and have a  skin-scraping test done. Besides fleas, there are other parasites which can be spread from the dog to his human family.

If the tests come back positive, you will be given a specific medication or treatment (such as a medicated shampoo). Your vet could also advise you as to how to clean your home, so that whatever parasite you'd be dealing with can't re-infest your home and dog.

If the tests come back negative, you'll have the peace of mind of knowing that your dog isn't spreading parasites to you and other people and animals. At that point you could have an allergy skin test done, so you would be aware of whatever your dog is allergic to, and take steps to lessen or stop the allergic response.

Besides the obvious discomfort caused by such intense itching, there is possibility the of secondary skin infections developing. These skin infections complicate treatment of the original condition because now they too need treatment. It's for these reasons that quick treatment is required for prolonged itching.

Best of luck,
Patti