Scratch it where it itches - PLEASE!!

We have a dog problem.  Dolly, the chow, is suffering from seasonal hot spots to the point that they are driving her crazy (and us, too).  About two weeks ago, we had to sedate her and take her to the vet for shots of antibiotics and prednisone.  She only got a few days of relief from the pain and itching.  She wasn't prescribed anything for us to give her by mouth, and for the past few days she has just been miserable.  Whining, yelping, barking and running in circles.  I feel so sorry for her.  We can't get her sheared until her skin begins to clear up, and she won't let us touch her hindquarters or tail because of the irritation.  I don't believe there is any infection now - only raw itchy skin.  Naturally, she's gnawing and biting at it constantly, which only compounds the problem.

This afternoon, we gave her 25 mg. of Benadryl and an aspirin.  I'm curious if any of you have had the same problems with your dogs having hotspots and how you treat them.  Dolly's 9 yrs. old, and this is the first time she's experienced this much irritation and pain with skin allergies.  Oh, I also purchased a bottle of hydrocortisone spray, and applied it best I could yesterday.  She's such a good natured animal, but not these days.  These days, she growls and snarls when anyone gets close to her backside.  Her fur is so thick and she's so touchy, I can't get to the skin to apply anything else.  I'm kinda at a loss here, and thinking the Benadryl should help with the itching and possibly even make her a little drowsy so she can at least get some rest tonight.  Poor baby.  I feel so helpless!

4:48:25 PM     comment []