A dog suffering from allergies or itchy skin can be very restless and feel uncomfortable. In some cases, these pets may have a problem getting some shut-eye too. Giving your pet the right kind of medication with the right dosage is essential. That is why we at Natchez Trace Veterinary Services have provided this article for a safe and effective way to treat your dog with rashes, allergies or itchy skin.

A medicine which is called Zyrtec for dog allergies and or itchy skin is safe and has proven a lot of successful treatments over the years.

If your dog suffers from any of the symptoms listed below, you might benefit from using Zyrtec for dog allergies.

• Seasonal allergy symptoms
• Skin allergy symptoms
• Itchy insect bites
• Reactions to poison oak or poison ivy
• Other itchy, allergy-like situations

Zyrtec (cetirizine) is an over-the-counter antihistamine pharmaceutical that can be purchased at any local drugstore.

Cetirizine is the generic name for the name brand product Zyrtec.

WARNING: Do not give your dog ZYRTEC-D. ZYRTEC-D contains ingredients that can be toxic to your dog.

Before giving Zyrtec for dog allergies or itchy skin, always double check the package label and make sure the only active ingredient in the product is cetirizine.

Zyrtec improves dog allergy symptoms such as itchy skin, runny noses, and watery eyes.

Drowsiness is a common side effect of Zyrtec.

The standard recommended dosage of Zyrtec for dog allergies is: 

• Dogs over 10 lbs: Give one 10mg tablet once daily
• Dogs under 10 lbs: Give one-half of a 10mg tablet once daily

Zyrtec (cetirizine) usually takes approximately 30 minutes to start working.

Always make sure to check with your veterinarian before giving your pet Zyrtec (cetirizine), especially if your pet is on any other supplements or medications.

Use Zyrtec in caution in pets that are pregnant have seizures or other health conditions.

You can use generic versions of Zyrtec, but make sure that the medication you are using contains only cetirizine and NO other ingredients, as these other ingredients could be harmful to your dog.

There is also another alternative treatment which you can find just within your home to relieve itchy skin and allergies for your pets.