Yes, dry itchy skin is a problem in Colorado. But, we also have fleas, lice, and ticks in Colorado. So, is it dry skin or is it bugs? How can you tell? The easiest and simplest way to tell is if the “flakes” are all the same shape and the dog is constantly scratching. In this case, it could be lice.

With each summer we groomers are seeing an increase in the number of cases. My own personal theory is more dogs are going to open spaces and doggy daycare, and at the same time wildlife are losing their inner city homes and moving into our yards.

The good news about lice, as opposed to fleas, is that they are species specific and live their whole lives on the dog. The bad news is that there are two types (biting and sucking), and killing them is more complicated. It takes shampoo, dips and a precise schedule.

You should let your veterinarian or groomer treat your dog because these shampoos and dips are poisonous and can harm your pet if accidently misused.

This is an article about lice that I found helpful: Dog lice - lice in dogs - Article on Pets.ca. But, just like I said, check with your veterinarian before you treat dog lice yourself.

Poor little Beignet is saying ”Orevwa” to her unwelcome guests.

1 Comment »

1. 

   Thank you so much for taking such good care of Beignet! The shampoo the vet prescribed is called Ecto Soothe 3X by Virbac.

   Comment by Heather — December 3, 2008 @ 5:09 pm

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