Dogs can suffer from allergic reactions and infections the same way people can. Nobody wants to see a beloved pet scratching, licking and rubbing his fur off, but that's what can happen. Causes can include inhaled, food or insect allergies, bacterial or viral infections and more. Coping strategies can include avoidance of the allergen, diet change, dietary supplements, oral steroids or anti-inflammatory medications, and topical medications. Check with your veterinarian if Elocon (mometasone fuorate) cream or ointment will be effective with your dog.
Instructions
Have your veterinarian diagnose the problem. You typically can't tell what's causing your dog's discomfort just by looking. Your vet will examine your dog and may order skin or blood tests, cultures and other tests. The results will determine the cause of your dog's problem, which will, in turn, determine the course of treatment.
Follow your vet's advice. If your vet tells you to change your dog's diet, try it. You may be encouraged to add dietary supplements such as essential fatty acids (EFA). Your veterinarian may recommend topical shampoos or dips. Your vet may also prescribe oral medications. Usually, your vet will try a combination of therapies until your dog's condition clears up.
Ask your vet if you can use Elocon on your dog. Do not use Elocon prescribed for humans on your dog. Elocon cream or ointment is a powerful topical steroid designed to reduce itching and clear up dermatitis, an allergic reaction in the skin. Too much of it can be absorbed into the skin, causing unwanted side effects. Doctors give very specific advice on its use, including not to cover the treated area with a bandage or anything plastic. You must be very careful to prevent your dog from licking it off, or he can get sick from the medicine.
The same medication that is in Elocon, mometasone fuorate, is available to dogs as ear drops, for ear infections caused by yeast, bacteria or viruses like staphylococcus. If your dog has such an infection, your vet may precribe this medication.
There is a specific type of sun-related inflammation called discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) that causes skin lesions in some dogs, for which your vet may recommend Elocon.