If your dog is constantly scratching, licking paws, biting skin, or rubbing against furniture, something is irritating their skin — and it needs attention. Dog itching (also called canine pruritus ) is one of the most common reasons pet parents visit a vet. In this complete guide, we’ll break down the top causes of itching in dogs, symptoms to watch for, and the best treatment options — including when to see a vet. ⭐ Why This Matters If itching is ignored, it can turn into: Hair loss Skin infection Pain and inflammation Open wounds Chronic allergy problems Early treatment saves your dog discomfort, and saves you money long-term. 🧪 1. Allergies (Most Common Cause) Allergies are the #1 reason dogs itch — and they’re increasing every year. There are three main types of allergies in dogs: 🔹 Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) Just one flea bite can trigger intense itching — especially near: Tail base Groin area Belly Back legs If your dog s...
Alright — here’s your step-by-step pericardiocentesis guide for dogs so you’ve got it ready when a tamponade patient comes through the door. Pericardiocentesis in Dogs – Quick Emergency Protocol ⚠ Goal: Relieve cardiac tamponade by draining pericardial fluid safely and quickly. 📌 Golden rule: This is both diagnostic and life-saving — do NOT delay for full work-up if the patient is crashing. 1. Equipment Sterile gloves, clippers, surgical scrub 14–18G over-the-needle catheter (small dogs: 16–18G; large dogs: 14–16G) Extension tubing + 3-way stopcock + large syringe (20–60 mL) Collection tubes (EDTA, plain, culture) Local anesthetic (lidocaine) + syringes + needles ECG monitoring (strongly recommended) Oxygen supply 2. Patient Preparation Place in right lateral recumbency → approach from the right side (avoids coronary artery that runs on left). Clip from 3rd to 8th intercostal space and from sternum up to halfway up thorax. Provide o...