Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 5/26/2009

Question
I have an 8 year old springer which i know is prone to skin allergies.  My vet told me that she has yeast and we have giving her steroids.  I know they are not good for her.  I see that she is getting a little arthritic, probaly from  all of the allergy shots she has had. All she does is stratch and itch.  Her skin is getting warty on her belly and in her ears.  I was told about antifungal meds to stop this but my Vet says that this can damage her liver. So my question is What is worse the steroids or antifungal meds?

Answer
All steroids will do is to reduce the itching.  If you want to kill the yeasts, then use the antifungal drugs.  Ketoconazole is the one that can have some liver problems as a consequence, but fluconazole is much cheaper and safer. YOu can also use antifungal shampoo to remove these yeasts from the skin.  I recommend either Mal-A-Ket or Malacetic Ultra shampoo for this.  YOur vet should have all of this for you.