Expert: Nicole - 1/7/2009

Question
A few months ago we took our bassett hound to VET for really dry nose.  His response was to give him Fish Oil pill and try using vaseline. Took to VET today, because of hair lose and VET said he has pyoderma.  Gave an antibotic, continue Fish Oil pills and bath twice a week - his nose is still verry dry -  are these two problems connected?

Answer
Hi Barbara,

Chances are no, not directly related to the pyoderma but possibly to the underlying problem.

Here's a good article on pyoderma:

http://www.medi-vet.com/Canine-Pyoderma.html

As you'll read, it's often a sign of an underlying disease such as hypothryoidism or mange.  Your vet should have done a skin scraping to be sure there is nothing else wrong.

As for the dry nose...much as vaseline won't typically work for human's already chapped lips (it's more of a protectant) it doesn't work that well for noses.  :)  Try some bag balm (if you aren't familiar with it, that is the actual name).  It's sold at most pet shops and chain stores like Wal-Mart.  It was originally designed for chapped or infected cow udders...as such it contains a mild medication.  If you can find the tiny tin (less than 2" tall) that's all you'll need...they're hard to find though.  You may end up having to buy the larger tin.

Bag Balm:

http://www.bagbalm.com/better.htm

You can also offer more liquids during the day.  If he won't drink more than normal, add a bit of water to his food or mix canned with dry.  I have heard of adding a bit of milk to the water but I can't vouch for this as I've never tried it.