Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 12/13/2005

Question
2.5 yr old yellow lab (Yukon), constant bacterial
skin infection, 1.5 yrs., a shot and 10 days of
antibiotics almost clears it but then it comes back, is the source of the bacteria internal or
environment. I have disinfected everything i can.
Runs from his chin down his chest, and rump and
tail most affected. Scratching and chewing and goes after himself like a flea biting but no fleas
present. How long can antibiotic treatment last and any advice on long term solutions sincerely?

Answer
If there is an infection, then it is secondary to some other type of skin disease.  Some dogs have allergies to foods or to pollens and molds that resuly in infection.  Some dogs are allergic to fleas so that only one flea bite can cause severe skin disease.  We keep some dogs on very long term antibiotic therapy until the skin clears up totally and then on a pulse of antibiotics every weekend for months.  That usually keeps the infection minimized.  Some dogs have yeast infections on the skin that require different drugs and special shampoos.  Ask your vet about all of this.