Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 11/8/2009

Question
My dog is a border collie/mongrel cross 12 years old living in Africa.  His nose gets raw whitish wet patches and the rest is scabby/scaly and has had this condition for months. It sometimes looks like fissures.  He bleeds on occasion (2-3 days apart) from the left nostril only.  Possibly as a result of bumping it, but have not observed this.  He is hard of hearing and his eye sight OK but worsening.  He has been treated with antibiotic and cortisone because this condition is thought to be caused by an allergy but whilst it seems to contain the problem it is not clearing up.   Many years ago he was treated successfully but the vet is no longer available.  Veterinary services here are limited so tests/xrays etc are not possible.  Any advice or suggestions would be appreciated.

Answer
Jack -

It seems that your dog may have an autoimmune problem, but I cannot diagnose without the benefit of a physical exam.  Since vet services are limited but available, take advantage of the services that are available and consult with a vet that can give a physical exam and work on containing the problem if that helps to keep the dog comfortable.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM