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My dog's neck is raw from scratching. What can I do until the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Miniature Schnauzer | Male | neutered | 2 years and 7 months old | 24 lbs

My Mini Schnauzer Cooper has started scratchong excessively a few weeks ago. Hes always scratched a bit but never like this. Hos neck is raw. Ive tried some moisterizing lotion for dogs thinking it was dry skin. He doesnt have fleas. His diet is stable so i dont think its an allergy. Ive tried to redirect him but tonight he snuck off and ended up doing this. Ill be calling the vet tomorrow but it can take a week to get in there. What can i do in the interim?

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on April 15th, 2024

Poor Cooper! It sounds like you're already on the right track for ruling out issues, however, environmental allergens can also flare up this time of year which may be causing the excessive itchiness. Since that area is very badly irritated and inflamed, I definitely agree with getting into your vet ASAP. Since it's right on his neck, you can try inverting an Elizabethan (cone) collar so that the cone part covers the irritation and the neck park sits up closer around his ears, so that it doesn't rub against the irritated spot and protects it from further scratching. Keeping the area clean and dry can also help reduce any secondary infections that may take hold in the irritated skin. An over the counter allergy medication such as Benadryl can also help by reducing any irritation/itchiness, and may also have the added benefit of making him a little drowsy so he's less likely to scratch. However, getting into the vet like you planned is the best course of action. If there is a big wound opening up, it gets worse, it oozes debris, or Cooper seems in major distress, getting into your vet sooner or reaching out to an urgent care vet may be a good idea.

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