Question submitted by the audience in our recent webinar: "The Itchy Dog":
My shorthaired, thick haired husky cross has itching which seems to change places on his body. There is no flaking, hot spots etc. I can keep it under control (to 90%) using Benadryl (3 times a day) but that is not a permanent solution. He gets a grain free high quality kibble. How long can I use Benadryl?
Answer by: Andrew Hillier, BVSc, MANZCVS, DACVD
You can use Benadryl as long as you like - there is unlikely to be any significant adverse reactions. The problem is that constant oral medications are difficult to maintain. If he needs constant Benadryl then I would suggest you have him evaluated by your veterinarian to determine which allergy he has – given that he is responsive to Benadryl, this would suggest that he most likely has Atopic Dermatitis. If this is correct, there are several other medications which may be more sustainable long term than Benadryl.
