What To Feed Your Dog

Q:  My Golden Retriever gets red paws and scratches only in July, August and the beginning of Sept. Our vet gave him prednisone and Benzdryl and he was fine for 2 months. The prednisone is gone and now he is starting to itch and get the red paws again. I don't want to continue prednisone anymore. What else can I use that is not threatening to his well being? Any mild over the counter meds?

A:  The only over the counter relief for itchiness are anti-histamines such as benadryl which you are already using. However, you could try bathing your dog twice weekly during the "itchy paw months" with a soothing anti-itch shampoo. In addition, from your description it sounds like your dog may have seasonal allergies. If this is the case, you may also look into allergy testing with a dermatologist who will assess the allergy and perhaps suggest allergen specific immunotherapy in which your dog will be given an allergy vaccine injection composed specifically for him and his allergies. 

 Your question has been answered by the following veterinarian:
Daniel Lauridia, DVM

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