Expert: English Bulldogs ( Marie ) e-mail me at mpmaltese@gmail.com - 6/30/2010

Question
My American Bulldog recently has been chewing on his own hair around his bottom. I know he has really dry skin and I assumed that's what it was because he is on flea and tick preventative. But now I just noticed today he has chewed a little part on his bottom to the point where its low enough to where you can see some skin. I'm trying to figure out what to do? He eats Purina Dog chow and I adopted him this past January, the adoption agency said they thought he was about 1 1/2 years old.

Answer
Hi Chris;  Well, it could be many things.  MOSTLY, the problems are environmental.  He also could have an allergy to fleas.  I know you mentioned he is on flea treatment.  JUST on little flea bite can leave 1-2 weeks of itching.

Here are some things you can try.

1.  Give this baby a bath with Oatmeal doggie shampoo --- JUST 1-2 x per month.
VERY soothing and healing to the skin.
If you want to use a groomer.... JUST ask for a bath with oatmeal shampoo for his itchy skin.

2.  I would get him onto a few supplements right away:

Vitamin C - give ESTER C - just 1 per day of 500 mg - long term --- Helps with the healing process.... This can be found at a pharmacy such as CVS or Walgreens.

3. Please call in this order to NuVET Labs in California :  NuVET is a Holistic and safe dog supplement.  It help to heal and takes away inflammation and itching.  NuVET will reduce any swelling process and start the re-growth of fur/hair.  ( The inflammation is the main problem with itching)  Most of the time this is related to allergy.
Please call 1-800-474-7044  and ask for the 39.00 bottle of NuVET Plus Wafer Treats.
I would give your dog 1 1/2 per day long term.
YOU can see NuVET here but call in for this size bottle.
http://www.apluspetcare.com
Tell them discount code 81098 for your 15% off program.

NuVET also sells a TEA tree oil HOT spot spray for 10.00 //// PLEASE ask them to send you a bottle.   Spray this 1-2 x per day on areas that are itchy or being chewed.

BEST wishes and KEEP me posted


Marie Peppers LPN MA
ASK the Pet Nurse