Expert: Silva Mirovics - 7/31/2008

Question
Lacy, my 6 year old Dalmatian/springer mix, has been perplexing me with her
lick granuloma for over a year now.  Once I learned what it was I was able to
keep the affected area covered with socks until she quit the licking and the
wound healed.  After that she began licking her abdomen and upper legs.  I
finally got that cleared up and now she has begun one on a back leg and
under her tail.  I also noticed that she has a crusty area on the tip of her
nose.  This time, she will not leave the socks on and I am about out of ideas.  

Lacy is a very sweet dog and I know she does not like spending time alone.  I
give her lots of attention when I am home and often leave her at the
neighbors when I need to be gone for more than a few hours.  I am quite sure
that her licking is caused by emotional reasons as she is very sensitive.

Any help you can give will be much appreciated!

Lori and Lac

Answer
Hi Lori
You are correct in thinking the cause of the licking is emotional.  You may want to try the "Elizabethan" collar on her while you treat the wounds, as well as the emotions.  I know the socks work well, but she can still access other parts of her body.  10 days of the collar may be long enough to break the habit.
Dogs love company as they are pack animals, so it's great that you can leave her with your neighbors from time to time.
I would suggest looking at her diet as this may be what is causing some of the problem.  Get her onto some raw, natural foods such as BARF, and some skin and coat supplements.  Flax Seed oil is great to add to her daily meals and will keep her skin in good condition.  You can also try applying Arnica lotion to the wounds as this may help to speed up the healing process.
If you are able to get some Australian Bush Flower essences then I would strongly recommend a blend of Boronia, Bottlebrush, Crowea & Mulla Mulla.  This blend will help to break the habit of licking, help the skin and boost immunity. You simply give her 7 drops, twice per day, directly into her mouth.  Also add a couple of drops daily into her water bowl.
Do keep in touch if you require any further information.

With thanks,
Silva.
www.roxysworld.com.au