Dog Food (Canine Diet and Nutrition)/Rednose pitbull

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Expert: Laura Murphy - 8/8/2007


Question
Dear Laura, i have a 1year old who constantly has skin infections over her mouth, tummy & underarms which look like ear mites & others look like big bloodblisters or pimples. the vets tell me its parasites on her skin but i have a medicated wash, antibiotics & have done several skin treatments, still no results, she has had it since she was 4weeks old and after stumbling on to you site i was curious as to wether it could be diet related. i feed her optimum dog roll or biskets or rice & some human food.
do you think there could be a conection with her diet to her prolonging skin irritations, ive tried everything that the vets tell me and it breaks my heart seeing her so uncomfortable & irritable all the time.

Answer
Hi Stephanie,

Sorry for the delay. I really don't think the problem's diet related. You're feeding a good diet and she's getting lots of variety. I'm a little curious that your vet has diagnosed parasites but has been unable to cure them. Did the vet find definite evidence of parasites or is he just guessing? It could also be pyoderma or allergic dermatitis. Dogs can develop these annoying symptoms from lots of things other than diet - specifically vaccinations are known to cause all sorts of immune problems, starting with skin disorders.

I would do a homeopathic liver detox with something like Newton's Pet Detox and a dose or two of Thuja Occidentalis 30C potency. Give the Detox for 2 weeks and really cleanse the liver of toxins in the body.

Then, go on a mega vitamin regimen with either lots of fresh, cooked veggies, or vitamin C and E supplementation, combined with fish oil or evening primrose oil capsules. Ecchinacea is good for building dogs' immune system just as it is humans. I think if you make an all-out attempt to improve her immune system, you might get some relief from the skin problems. The fish oil capsules will help, as well.

As for temporary relief, regular black tea is a good calming agent. Just brew a cup and let it cool, then soak a washcloth in it and apply it to the trouble spots.

Hopefully, these suggestions will give her some lasting relief.

Laura Murphy
Pets by Nature
www.petsbynature.com

Dog Food (Canine Diet and Nutrition)

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Laura Murphy

Expertise

Do you have a question about nutrition, including which food is best for your pet and which should be avoided? If you’re researching homecooked or raw diets, this is the place. I can tell you everything you ever wanted to know about raw feeding. Do you want to know whether or not you need to supplement your pet’s diet and, if so, which supplements are for you? I can help you with just about any question regarding canine and feline nutrition and feeding. Although I believe in the benefits of raw feeding, I respect anyone trying to do the best thing for their pets and will answer questions on any type of pet food.

I can address many areas of holistic pet care, including illness, homeopathic remedies, herbal remedies, and flower essences. We can talk about everything from vaccinating (and when not to), to skin problems, to cancer. Please note that I am not a veterinarian and any health-related information is from my personal experience and research, but I can be a good resource.

I can also answer your questions about pet rescue, including when to use them and what kind of pet is right for you. And I love controversial subjects like puppy mills and animal experimentation. If I don’t know the answer to your question immediately, I’ll research it for you.

Basically, if you’re got a pet question – fire away. Chances are, I’ll have something you can use.

Laura Murphy

Experience

An animal lover and owner all my life, I spent years as a foster parent for a national rescue group and as a volunteer at my local Humane League. Many years ago, I began researching and using natural health care methods to treat both my pets and my family. I have worked with holistic vets to develop and provide custom homeopathic and Bach Flower Essence blends for their clients. In 2002, I started Pets By Nature to give pet owners who are seeking a healthier and more natural way to feed and care for their pets a reliable source of education, support, guidance, and products. Relying on honesty, integrity, and openness with respect to natural health care for companion animals, I am able to provide quality products, services, and information with the intent of helping interested pet owners learn about and practice a more natural method of pet nutrition and health care.

Education/Credentials
I am a college graduate and full time Business Systems Analyst. I have written many articles for publication on my web site and throughout the local pet community. I have been a vendor at local dog shows and do public speaking on the topics of pet nutrition and holistic health care.

Past/Present Clients
My clients range from new pet owners to 4th generation raw feeding breeders. I enjoy a wonderful professional relationship with several veterinary practices who refer my diets, supplements, and homeopathics to many of their clients. I ship supplements and flower essences all over the world, and provide a quality frozen raw food to the Central Pennsylvania area. Virtually all of my marketing is word-of-mouth referrals from my current clients and I consider them all my extended family.

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