Zyrtec - Page 1

How many think it's a good idea to use Zyrtec on a dog with dry skin?

This was supposedly recommended by a vet.

Opinions?

So there's an assumption the dry skin is related to allergy?  

My assumption is the Vet doesn't know, and the owner only makes things worst.

Personally I think it is an environmental issue and too many giving the owner bad advice.

The dog has so much crap in its system there is no way to tell what's going on.

Anyway I am just venting, kinda reaching the end of my patience and sad at a choice I made.

Moons.

You're probably right. Poor dog needs to start over, with a biologically appropriate dog food. Kibble feeders need to remember that dogs don't need carbs; sure, they can digest some of it, but they don't NEED it, and it often just results in yeast issues. There's nothing really wrong with a dog that can't handle the carbs. It's normal. 

Moons,

In answer to your original question, generally antihistamines are drying, but you have to weigh out the good with the bad.

I know it must be frustrating for you, but having had two allergic dogs I know how difficult it is to know the right thing to do when you have seemingly knowledgeable people telling you what to do- all with different advice. It makes your head spin. All you want is for the dog to get relief and get better. Unfortunately many times the things that give them temporary relief only make it worse in the long run, so your stuck between a rock and a hard place.  Conventional vets typically want to put the dog on antibiotics and antihistamines and worse yet, steroids. Then they may treat with Ivermectin, just to be on the "safe" side. So you're right, the dog's immune system is being slammed more and more. Then you have the holistic approach with the raw diet and such, but that all takes time. It took my dog well over a year. There are no easy answers. 

 All I can say is to try and be patient and supportive. If we truly had all the answers for these itchy allergic dog, we wouldn't have anymore itchy allergic dogs :)

The best,
Char

I would think Zyrtec would only work if the cause were allergies.  It works wonders for me, and if my daughter's exzema flares up, but the allergist has directly linked her skin issues to allergies.

Opal

Oops! Maybe misunderstood the original post. I assumed that the dog had allergies and therefore was prescribed Zyrtec. I thought  the dog ALSO had dry skin so there was a concern the Zyrtec would make it worse. Sorry if I misunderstood.

moons try this web site www.aromesse.com hope all gets better very soon

Shostring, Have you had success personally with these products? If so, which ones specifically? I have used Colloidal  Silver with success on lesions/staph infections, but it can't be used long term due to the possibility of toxicity.  I am always interested in hearing of firsthand experiences and learning of new products that help skin issues.
Thank you,
Char 

I have just started Citrus Bioflavonoids for my dogs environmental allergies, I hope this will help her, as
it is a natural anti-histamine.  So far I have seen positive results, less paw chewing and tummy licking, her ears are still giving her problems, but I am giving her meds for that.
  She is raw fed, supplemented with EsterC, and omega oils,  so the diet is as good as it gets, and she has been tested so I know her allergy issues aren't food related...I would look into Bio's vs the chemicals that Zyrtec and benedryl have.