Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is a common condition found among dogs who have encountered fleas. This is the leading cause of itching, and is a reaction to the flea’s saliva. While feeding, a flea will inject saliva into your dog’s skin, meaning that dogs experiencing FAD do not have to be currently infested with fleas to feel the itching sensation.
All dogs that have encountered fleas are not necessarily affected, however, adults and particular breeds are more apt to experience FAD.
Some strong signs that your dog is suffering from FAD are itching and hair loss from the middle of one’s back to the tail base, as well as on the rear legs.
Treatment:
- Controlling flea infestation with medication along with environment control.
- Steroid treatment may be used. This will result in itching relief for your dog. However, there are sometimes side affects from steroid use that may cause more harm than good.
- Remember that this is an allergy that can be easily managed, and with the proper treatment, can result in a happy and itch-free pet.
