What is making your dog itch?

Quiz Questions

• 1.
  When do you notice your dog itch most?

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  • A.
    Spring/summer
  • B.
    Winter
  • C.
    All year round
• 2.
  Which skin symptoms are most prominent on your dog? (Select all that apply)

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  • A.
    Hives with itching and scratching
  • B.
    Crusty sores on skin
  • C.
    Hair loss around forehead, eyes, muzzle, and forepaws
  • D.
    None of these
• 3.
  Does your dog have any of the following? (Select all that apply)

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  • A.
    Fleas/flea dirt, which looks like black powder
  • B.
    Misshapen or brittle nails
  • C.
    Musty smelly body odor/greasy coat
  • D.
    None of these
• 4.
  Do you notice any of the these behaviors? (Select all that apply)

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  • A.
    Constant licking at the coat
  • B.
    Head shaking with ear discharge, ear scratching
  • C.
    Self-harming in an effort to scratch the itch
  • D.
    None of these
• 5.
  Does your dog suffer from any of the following? (Select all that apply)

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  • A.
    Discharge from nose or eyes
  • B.
    Overall hair loss
  • C.
    Recurring chronic ear infections
  • D.
    None of these
• 6.
  Which is the biggest issue that you have noticed? 

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  • A.
    Vomiting/diarrhea/gas
  • B.
    Itchy rear-end/scooting
  • C.
    Behavior issues: hyperactivity/changes in energy levels/aggression/anxiety
  • D.
    None of these
• 7.
  Does your dog experience any of the following symptoms? (Select all that apply)

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  • A.
    Chewing and licking paws
  • B.
    Face rubbing
  • C.
    Sneezing with runny eyes
  • D.
    None of these
• 8.
  Where & what skin lesions do you mostly see present? (Select all that apply)

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  • A.
    Skin lesions all over boby
  • B.
    Skin lesions on the underside
  • C.
    Puss-filled lesions on skin
  • D.
    None of these
• 9.
  Do you do any of the following? (Select all that apply)

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  • A.
    Bathe your dog more than 1x/month
  • B.
    Use anti-fungal/anti-bacterial soaps/shampoos
  • C.
    Never or very seldom brush my dog's coat
  • D.
    None of these
• 10.
  Have you tried prescription steroid medications for your dog's allergies?

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  • A.
    Yes, and it helped a lot
  • B.
    Yes, and it did not make a difference
  • C.
    No, I've never tried that route

Quiz Outcomes

• 1.
  Dry skin

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  Dry skin could be the root cause of your dog's itching. To address this holistically, focus on keeping your dog well-hydrated and nourished. Explore natural, high-quality moisturizing products and supplements like fish oil, which may promote skin health from the inside out. A holistic veterinarian can provide guidance on natural care for your pet's skin.Maintaining a healthy gut is instrumental in bolstering the immune system and nurturing skin health. The gut's diverse microbiota aids in regulating immune responses, enabling the body to fend off potential threats and maintain skin health. A balanced gut microbiome also contributes to reduced inflammation, which is essential for preventing skin issues and promoting a healthy skin.Remember that these results are based on the quiz and should serve as a starting point for understanding your dog's itching. Consultation with a veterinarian is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
• 2.
  Possible parasites 

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  External stressors, including parasites like fleas, might be triggering your dog's itching. To address this, maintain a clean living environment, and explore holistic pest control methods that are gentle on your pet and the environment. Consult with a holistic veterinarian for guidance on natural approaches to keeping pests at bay. A healthy gut plays a pivotal role in fortifying the immune system and safeguarding against parasitic infections. The gut's diverse microbiota contributes to immune regulation, enhancing the body's ability to identify and combat parasites effectively. Additionally, a well-balanced gut ecosystem can help create an inhospitable environment for parasites, reducing the likelihood of infestations and promoting overall immune resilience.Remember that these results are based on the quiz and should serve as a starting point for understanding your dog's itching. Consultation with a veterinarian is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
• 3.
  Suspected Bacterial/Fungal Infections

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  Your dog's itching may be indicative of a skin infection, possibly bacterial or fungal in nature. Consider a holistic approach by ensuring your dog's overall well-being, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. You can also explore holistic remedies like herbal supplements or essential oils to support skin health. Consult with a holistic veterinarian for personalized advice.A healthy gut is a cornerstone of a robust immune system, as it houses trillions of microorganisms that interact with the immune cells in the body. This interaction helps train the immune system to recognize and respond effectively to potential threats, including harmful bacteria that can cause skin infections. A well-balanced gut microbiome not only strengthens immune defenses but also plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, which includes reducing the risk of skin infections by bolstering the body's natural defenses.Remember that these results are based on the quiz and should serve as a starting point for understanding your dog's itching. Consultation with a veterinarian is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
• 4.
  Potential Food Allergies

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  Your dog's itching could be linked to dietary sensitivities. Changes in diet or new treats might be contributing to the itchiness. For a holistic approach, review your dog's diet and explore wholesome, natural food options that are tailored to your pet's unique needs. Consult with a holistic veterinarian to discuss dietary adjustments and potential natural remedies.Allergies, which is a sign of overactive immune response, are closely linked to the health of the gut microbiota, as the gut plays a vital role in regulating the immune system's response to allergens. A balanced and diverse gut microbiota can help promote immune tolerance, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. Therefore, maintaining gut health through diet, probiotics, and early life factors may be essential in preventing and managing allergies.Remember that these results are based on the quiz and should serve as a starting point for understanding your dog's itching. Consultation with a veterinarian is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
• 5.
  Likely Environmental Allergies

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  Your dog's itching may be due to environmental sensitivities, such as pollen, grass, or dust mites. These sensitivities can fluctuate with the seasons and might cause occasional discomfort. To support your pet, consider creating an allergen-friendly indoor environment and explore natural remedies or supplements that may help alleviate symptoms.Allergies, which is a sign of overactive immune response, are closely linked to the health of the gut microbiota, as the gut plays a vital role in regulating the immune system's response to allergens. A balanced and diverse gut microbiota can help promote immune tolerance, reducing the risk of allergic reactions. Therefore, maintaining gut health through diet, probiotics, and early life factors may be essential in preventing and managing allergies.Remember that these results are based on the quiz and should serve as a starting point for understanding your dog's itching. Consultation with a veterinarian is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.