Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 6/10/2008

Question
My dog has been chewing herself up on her paws (biting and licking them so much that she has eaten off the black pads), she chews her legs and the area where her hind legs meet her stomach.  She has chewed off most of her fur.  In addition, the skin in her stomach area which was normally a pink color has become almost black and spotted.  She has chronic ear infections (we go to the vet at least ever other month.)  Most times it is diagnosed as a yeast infection but occasionally she has two causes of infection.  I asked the vet if she could have systemic yeast infection but he did not believe that was the case.  He wants us to take her to an allergy specialist but the cost is prohibitive for us.  He alternatively suggested switching to a pet food which he sells which he says may alleviate some of her symptoms (assuming she has an allergy to something in the food).  I asked if I could give her monthly allergy shots but he will not do that without her being seen by the allergy specialist.  I have put a cone on her which she now wears almost 24/7. I have purchased anti-itch wipes and have purchased a hydrocortisone cream which I apply to her affected areas. I am at the end of my rope.  I can't bear to see her suffer from this constant itching.  Is there something you could suggest I try.

Answer
If the dog is allergic, that can be the cause.  Ask your vet if your dog can have a dexamethasone shot followed by dexamethasone tablets.  That will calm the skin.  Yeast infections are always secondary to some underlying inflammatory skin disease.  Your dog should be on ketoconazole for the yeast and an anti-yeast shampoo 2-3 times a week for at least 3 weeks.  Food allergy may be a cause so if the steroids do not help, then change the diet.