My dog scratches a lot and has a bald spot. Should I see a vet?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Dog | Wire Fox Terrier | Male | unneutered | 5 lbs
My mom's dog scratches a lot. He had a dry bald spot on his back but it cleared up on its own. He got another one on his neck but it didn't go away. It got worse. Vets here close early and i don't have a chance to take him since i work. My mother can't drive since her vision is not good. Is there something i can buy to treat it or is a vet visit necessary?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on May 17th, 2017
Unfortunately I think you are going to have to figure out a way to get to the vet's office. The skin here is thickened/lichenified with discharge indicating a chronic infection that will likely require long term oral antibiotic and possibly antifungal medication. The vet will do a test looking at some of the debris under a microscope to see if it is bacteria or yeast or both. I would see if your vet allows drop-off appointments. Some vets will let you drop a pet off in the morning and then you could pick him up later that day or the next morning, or see if a Saturday appointment is available, or if any of the vets do housecalls. Or see if a friend could drive your mom to her appointment during the day.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on November 28th, 2018
My guess is that she has a superficial skin infection (usually a combination of yeast and bacteria). I would recommend a vet visit ASAP for some simple testing, and likely both oral and topical antibiotics. This isn't a life threatening emergency by any means, but she's also probably pretty uncomfortable, so definitely go this week, if not tomorrow. She likely has underlying allergies, or something else making her skin unhealthy, so ask your vet about that -- most vets prefer to get the acute infection under control and then discuss the underlying cause at a follow up appointment.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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