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My morning routine starts with my alarm going off. I hit the snooze button until eventually, I put on my glasses and wait for the sound of my final wake-up call: my 3-year-old Lhasa Apso, Emerson. He begins the day with a long yawn and a stretch or two, then arches his back and begins scratching his ears as I hear the familiar “clink-clink-clink” of the dog collar. It’s a morning routine that I know I share with many other dog owners.
Our routines become so commonplace that eventually we don’t pay much attention to them. This got me thinking about Emerson and his scratching, rubbing and licking consistently on his skin—particularly during the spring and summer months. The itching doesn’t seem to occur only in the morning, but at different times throughout the day. I began to take notice. Have I missed something? Could his scratching indicate a need for further attention?
Since I always wanted to be a detective on some level, I began to do some investigating, noting the time of day (and season) Emerson was itching, as well as the location of his scratching. I also changed his shampoo, spoke with my Banfield veterinarinan and modified his diet a bit because of some food allergies. Fortunately, Emerson’s itching began to subside.
Dogs shouldn’t itch all the time. And if they do, I would suggest consulting your veterinarian, as your daily sidekick could have a condition that needs to be treated medically. Keep a close eye on how often your Pet indulges in scratching and whether it is localized to one particular area. Also part your Pet’s hair and check regularly for any skin abnormality or discomfort when these areas are touched.
As for Emerson, it seems my detective evaluation gives me nothing further to worry about. His skin and coat looks better than ever and he continues to greet me each morning with long stretches and deep yawns—and yes, a lick and scratch or two. But now the licks are only on my face. Not a bad way to start each day!