Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 4/30/2008

Question
How do i prevent my pit bull from getting this skin irritant again? She has had it twice now and is coming down with it again. She is bathed daily and lives in a very well kept home,where is she getting it and what do I need to do to prevent this? The vet is getting very expensive in this matter. And what actions should I take regarding my children and my soon to be new born baby?

Answer
Most skin diseases in dogs are allergic in origin.  So you need to ask your vet if your dog is allergic.  If he is, then test the dog and give allergy shots to desensitize the dog so it will not continuously re-occur year after year.  If it is not allergy, then you need to find out the cause to see if there is something that can be done.  For example, if the dog has a low thyroid hormone level, then giving thyroid pills will help.