Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 9/2/2008

Question
My pitbull has turned tomato red! She has red areas on her chest on through her genitals. Also has them on her paws and legs up to her abdomen. The rims of her eyes are red and her lips and nose are, too. There are no red patches on her back or the top of her head and her ears are not touched much. Tail is okay. The skin is smooth- no flaking. She hasn't been exposed to a new diet(except for a new treat: T-Bonz by Purina), chemicals, or other animals. She doesn't have mange or fleas. She eats very well and is very active. I thought she had been stung by a wasp or bee but she has been red for almost two weeks now. I have given her baths with shampoo containing hydrocortisone and even applied Solarcaine to the red areas and she gets some relief but not for long. I can't afford the Vet so any advice you can give would be GREATLY appreciated.

Answer
Marianna -

Have your dog examined by her veterinarian.  She is obviously allergic to something in her environment and needs to be treated as soon as possible.  If your dog spends a lot of time in the sun and her coat is light in color, then it is imperative that you keep her out of the sun.  Excessive sun exposure can cause sunburn and serious damage to the skin.  Talk with your vet about how much sun exposure is healthy.  

If she is not a sun worshipper, then it is important that you determine what is making her so uncomfortable. Perhaps she has a food allergy or she may be allergic to the carpet or her bedding.  
Talk it over with her vet; allergies can be difficult to control if you do not know what is causing the allergic reaction.

Good Luck  -

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM