Can Benadryl help itchy dogs with fleas?

Answer 1

In general, no - dogs are notorious for licking at itchy spots on their skin, so you would risk intoxication through ingestion of the spray vehicle. Also, dog skin is very different from human skin (in addition to the dense fur, dog skin is generally thicker and less able to absorb materials through it), so Benadryl spray may have a different effect on your dog than it would on you.

Answer 2

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is an antihistamine, not a painkiller. Some Vets do prescribe it for their patients for conditions not related to pain. If you believe your dog is in pain, contact your Vet for an appropriate medication.

Answer 3

Not really - diphenhydramine (the active ingredient in Benadryl) can have sedation as a side effect. However, the sedation can be overcome by anxiety or hyperactivity, and even at peak effect in sensitive dogs typically won't make them fall asleep.

Answer 4

No. You need to take your dog in to see your Veterinarian immediately if there is swelling going on around the bite area. This is the venom attacking the blood cells and destroying them and then the tissue will become necrotic, etc. If the area around the bite is normal looking and your dog is acting fine, then all is ok but if swollen then off to the Vet you must go. Your dog would need to be treated with anti venom plus antibiotics and possibly steroids. Benadryl is good for bee stings, wasp stings and such but not for venomous snake bites.

Answer 5

You first need to get rid of the problem which is fleas setting up an allergic reaction in the dog's skin. Try giving a soothing bath first using a flea shampoo then use a topical once a month flea & tick preventer such as Frontline Plus or the generic version of Frontline Plus. You just put that on once a month topically and no more fleas or ticks. Your dog's skin should heal up naturally but if the skin continues to be itchy & inflamed, take your dog into your Veterinarian and let him/her treat the problem. Benadryl can help to a certain degree but best to let a Vet treat this problem after you have gotten rid of the fleas. Remember too that fleas are the intermediate hosts for Tapeworms so would be a good idea to deworm your dog for tapes.

Answer 6

Do not give your dog any drugs or medicines whatsoever without asking a veterinarian first.