Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 9/28/2008

Question
I cannot afford to see a vet at this point. My baby Harley is a Lhasa Apso who is chewing on himself all the time and is now lost most of the hair on his back end and tail. I have changed his food to organic with NO rice or wheat, I groom him weekly and put on flea repellent, I have gotten that no itch spray, and I have even gone as far as giving him Benadryl.
NOTHING has helped! PLEASE give me more suggestions!!!!
I feel like a bad owner every time someone looks at him and then gives me 'the look'. But i've tried everything! I need one of those dog neck cones but I can't afford one.

Answer
Della -

Unfortunately, some skin conditions that affect pets will not resolve without the help of a veterinary professional.   

The type of food you feed has a direct affect on a pet's skin.  Feed high quality food - premium food- at all  times.  The cheaper foods have lots of junk that can adversely affect the skin and cause severe skin problems such as itchy skin and hari loss. I recommend trying Hill's Science Diet for Sensitive Skin or Nutro for Sensitive Skin both can be found at Petsmart stores.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM