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My dog has fleas, itchy skin, rash, and eye issues. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Goldendoodle | Female | unspayed | 8 years and 2 months old | 60 lbs

Hi - Over the past 10 months I've been fighting my goldendoodle, Lucy's, fleas using natural products (Diatom Earth, essential oil, comb, AC vinegar) . They've been 'under control' for the most part... as I find one or two every day or two.... though over the past month, her skin has become very, very itchy. 2 days ago she developed a rash (pic) on her belly and continues to itch and chew at every part of her she can reach. Today her eye is red with mucous goop. Flea allergy??? What to do?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 22nd, 2020

I'm sorry to say that the fleas are not under control if you are still finding them on Lucy. Fleas actually live in the environment, not on the dog. They jump on the dog to feed and them jump off. Even though you've only found one or two, I guaranteed there are so many more you haven't seen. No wonder her skin is so bad in the picture. Natural flea products do not work at all, she needs prescription flea treatments from the vet. She also needs to have her skin treated, and I'm quite concerned about her eye being red with discharge. That suggests an eye infection. Your dog is likely very miserable being so itchy, and she needs to see a vet immediately. Please take her into one now. Best of luck.

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