Chewing on his hind end almost at a constant rate... Flea chewing... However several people have checked and yet no fleas... Hot spots at the base of his tail but that first picture is of his left thigh... Those lumps are about the size of a quarter coin or 50 cent coin and firm to the touch and warm as well... He's chewed I'd say 25%-30% of all his fur on the lower half of his body... What could cause this? And is there anything we can do at home to help this poor dog... Who is a Queensland healer pitbull mix
It sounds like your dog is experiencing significant discomfort due to skin issues. The excessive itching, redness, scabbing, hair loss, and flaky skin, along with the presence of firm, warm lumps, suggest a few potential causes.
Firstly, allergies could be a factor. Dogs can be allergic to various things, including food, environmental factors like pollen or dust mites, and even certain materials. These allergies often manifest as itching, redness, and hair loss.
Another possibility is parasites. Even if fleas aren't visible, other parasites like mites can cause severe itching and skin irritation.
Infections are also a concern. Bacterial or fungal infections can lead to hot spots, scabs, and hair loss. The warmth and firmness of the lumps could indicate an infection.
Additionally, dermatitis might be the issue. This could be due to contact with irritants or an underlying condition like atopic dermatitis.
For home care, you can try a few steps to provide some relief:
- Bathing your dog with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo designed for dogs can help. Oatmeal-based shampoos, in particular, can be soothing for itchy skin.
- Applying a mild, over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to the affected areas can help reduce inflammation and itching. However, avoid using it on open wounds or where your dog can lick it off.
- To prevent your dog from further irritating the affected areas, consider using an Elizabethan collar (cone).
- Applying a cool, damp cloth to the hot spots can help reduce inflammation and provide some relief.
Given the severity and persistence of the symptoms, it's crucial to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can perform tests to identify the exact cause and prescribe appropriate treatments, such as antibiotics for infections or medications for allergies. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary to prevent further complications and provide your dog with the relief he needs.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.
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