My dog has an itchy sore. Can human hydrocortisone offer safe relief?

Question

My dog is itchy to the point of making a sore on her haunch. We checked for fleas, and none are apparent (no abnormal shedding, flea droppings, other pets not itchy). A vinegar/green tea mix didn't work. Will hydrocortisone (people type) work? Rather, do I run the risk of making it worse if I apply a people ointment? We're going to call the vet in the morning for an appointment, but I'm hoping to give her some relief overnight. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 80 lbs

David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

Hydrocortizone can help with itchy spots but when the problem is generalized it is not likely to help much, on the other hand it won't make it worse either. Scratching can be caused by various reasons such as fleas, mites ,fungal infection, bacterial infection and allergies. the first 4 needs to be ruled out before we start treating for allergies. in order to do that first de-flea her with a high quality flea treatment such as advantage spot on, if it doesn't help - take her to the vet in order to check for/treat the other possibilities. If everything is ruled out, then an allergy treatment can be started. Usually an hypoallergenic food is a good way to start together with anti histamines. if it doesn't help - the best solution is a medication called Apoquel which treats allergies with great success and without side effects.

My dog has an itchy sore. Can human hydrocortisone offer safe relief?

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