1. What are your opinions on Dogs?
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3.  Best Advice for Dogs with Skin Issues
4.  I still need to publish a real post about Mr. Stix's full backstory, but this feels more pressing. For nearly 18 months, Mr. Stix's permanent nakey spot (from unknown injuries before he was rescued, including 15 fractures and this big patch of coat missing) has featured several inflamed, peeling areas. Initially I tried to fix it myself at home with things like aloe vera, vaseline, a veterinary ointment called animax that the shelter had give us while we fostered him most of 2019, etc. It's sort of a combination of steroids, antibacterial, and antifungal stuff. I took him to see our main veterinarian in spring 2020, when there was a 2-month wait to get into see a board-certified veterinary dermatologist. It has been quite a journey since then, and it's nowhere near over. Here's my best advice for dogs with skin issues.
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6.  Before I tell the ongoing saga with Mr. Stix's skin. Here is my best advice for dogs with skin problems.
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8.  See a board-certified veterinary dermatologist as soon as you can. Yes, your main veterinarian can probably help, but it's honestly best to go right to the top experts.
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11.  Agree to whatever skin scrapings / cytology the veterinary dermatologist recommends. This provides information about what types of secondary infections currently grow on your dog's damaged skin.
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14.  Do NOT assume every skin issue is allergies. It often is some sort of allergic process, but NOT always and assuming so (and acting accordingly may only delay real solutions and subject your dog to all kinds of quack advice and home remedies).
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17.  Buy the best quality fish oil and Vitamin E supplements you can afford, if it's recommended for your particular case of a dog with skin issues.
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20.  When necessary, agree to the skin biopsies (yes, like minor surgery) and have them reviewed by a veterinary pathologist that specializes in dogs with skin issues. The one we used is at Texas A&M.
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23.  Follow your veterinary dermatologist's advice and plans, and keep the faith. These dogs with skin problems often don't improve quickly. (I need to take my own advise. See below.)
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25.  Mr. Stix's Story as a Dog with Skin Problems
26.  This is what Mr. Stix's nakey spot looks like when it's normal. Photo from May 2019 soon after his hip surgery. The bald patch is permanent. That's not the issue.
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28.  This is how bad the red / peeling areas got in mid-2020 when we saw our main veterinarian, who added a low-dose of oral Vitamin E and some topical too and told me to keep using the animax.
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30.  This is how it looked when Mr. Stix first saw the board-certified veterinary dermatologist in early August 2020, but the specialist had me STOP the animax and instead use a prescription anti-bacterial ointment (mupirocin) ... as well as add a better quality oral fish oil and continue both topical and oral Vitamin E (but at a higher dose twice a day). We knew from the skin scrapings / cytology they did onsite that Mr. Stix had a bacterial infection.
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32.  But, without the daily topical steroids (which long term are a bad idea), Mr. Stix's skin got much, much worse -- even breaking open and scabbing over.
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34.  Our veterinary dermatologist had recommended doing the skin biopsies right away in August 2020, and I *almost agreed to it then, but I was VERY worried about the cuts resulting in skin that would NOT heal. And, I figured it was at least worth a try to use the prescription antibiotic ointment and other supplements and stuff.
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37.  But, by around Thanksgiving, it was clear we had to do the biopsy. That photo is kind of gruesome, so you can see it here, if you want. I wish I had done the biopsy sooner. I feel like I wasted time from August through November.
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39.  Post-Biopsy Diagnosis
40.  As I expected, despite all the know-it-alls trying to tell me it was an allergic issue, it turns out that Mr. Stix instead has an autoimmune condition called erythema multiforme. They believe it was triggered by the trauma of his earlier injuries. They don't think it is life-threatening. They don't think it will spread to other areas of his skin. Just the already damaged, permanent nakey spot.
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43.  With that information in hand, we updated the treatment plan to include a topical, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory ointment (tacrolimus -- often pricey, but we used a Good RX coupon at Costco to get the cost down). They use a version of this medication orally for people who have had various kinds of transplants. It's the smallest / safest option for treatment, and that's where we started.
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46.  I was so hopeful it would work at the once-daily application, but the skin still didn't heal completely.
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49.  So, in early 2021, we started applying it twice daily on the advice of our veterinary dermatologist.
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52.  But, it still hasn't healed completely. It often improves a lot and then comes roaring back, so we had another appointment to see the specialist last week. We had to try something new.
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54.  Enter the Big Immune-Suppressing Drug
55.  Despite my concerns and form of veterinary PTSD about major immune suppression drugs (after our experiences with Lilly), I agreed last week to add oral cyclosporine, which is also a drug that people get after various transplants. Mr. Stix would need to take it daily for life.
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58.  It smells like it's made from skunk butts, so each gel-cap pill is individually packaged, and you keep them in the freezer because that can help with nausea it can cause (since it's recommended you give on an empty stomach).
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61.  I found some good info on this med, and our veterinary dermatologist assured me that it has been safely used in veterinary medicine for like 20+ years, etc.
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64.  The med only comes in doses of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg, and at his size Mr. Stix's ideal dose is around 88 mg once a day. So we went with 75 mg (25+50) to err on the lower side.
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67.  It takes like 3-7 days for the med to build up in the blood to therapeutic levels, but it takes more like 4-6 weeks to know if it's going to help the skin (or not).
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70.  We made it to day 4, then the barfing started.
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72.  Anxiety
73.  I wish I could say that this is all going to be fine, but I just don't know. I feel like I just have to accept that the skin will never fully heal, even though seeing his raw spots up close while applying the topical med twice a day and topical Vitamin E once a day causes me so much angst and anxiety.
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76.  I supposed to check in with our veterinary dermatology team next week to confirm that Mr. Stix's weirdness and apparent suffering has improved.
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79.  It took a lot of convincing to get Mr. Champion of My Heart to agree to try the cyclosporine, so even if the specialist comes back and recommends maybe a lower dose, I doubt we'll want to risk it ... because Mr. Stix sure seemed to be having some neurologist issues to me, and after the Lilly situation, I just cannot do that again.
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82.  He is only 3 years old. I don't want to make anything worse. It honestly felt like I'd poisoned him.
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85.  The good news is that most of the time his skin doesn't seem to hurt or itch or anything -- though I do have pain meds, if he needs them. It mostly just looks bad, and he has to wear a no-lick collar for about 20 minutes after I apply his meds so that he doesn't lick it off.
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88.  His nakey spot is prone to sunburn anyway, and the topical tacrolimus increases the risk of burning, so I used his earlier sun-reflecting coat (which started to look ragged) as a pattern and sewed him a new / light sun protection coat. He looks very cute in it.
89.  https://championofmyheart.com/2021/08/05/dogs-with-skin-issues/
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91.  Tips You Should Know When Dealing With Dogs
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94. It's natural that you would love having a dog. Dogs have been great pets for thousands of years. It's always a great idea to get a dog, but you have to remember that you are also taking on some responsibility when you bring a dog into your house. Here are some ways you can handle those responsibilities.
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96. Hugs are great to give your pets, but kisses are not that great. Your dog's mouth is fairly dirty at any given time. Dogs poke around trash cans, love smelling and licking other dogs' body parts and enthusiastically drink from toilet bowls. Many people believe that dogs' mouths do not have as much germs as humans' mouths. This is completely wrong!
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98. Avoid insisting that your dog socialize nicely with every other passing dog. Experts recommend that your dog be able to tolerate introductions through sniffing and eying with another animal, but say forcing the issue can create problems. Accept your dog's lead when meeting and greeting other animals and allow for natural interaction.
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100. If your dog gets lost, it is very unlikely that you will see him again unless he has proper identification. Tags can come off, so the best option is a microchip. It is quick to put in your dog, and it causes minimal discomfort. Simply register the chip ID after it is put in, and your pet will always have his identification with him.
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102. Dogs love to eat grass and other plants. When you're outside, this may not be much of a problem, but if you maintain houseplants indoors, chances are they are poisonous to dogs. Before bringing a dog into the home, make sure all your houseplants are well out of reach of a dog who may be tempted by a green tasty treat.
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104. The pads of your dog's feet can become dry and cracked, so make sure that you moisturize them regularly. Ask your veterinarian for advice on which product to use. Avoid using moisturizers that are intended for humans, because they can make the pads too soft and your dog may get hurt.
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106. When it comes to training your dog, you should never have several people in charge. Everyone has their own methods, and experiencing a number of them can leave your pooch confused. Be sure that one individual is in control of the training and keeps others working with the dog on the same page.
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108. If your vet gives you medication to take home and administer to your dog, be sure and ask for ideas on getting him to swallow it. Dogs differ in their tolerance of pills and badly-flavored liquids, so have a few tricks up your sleeve in case he resists. Getting a dog to take medicine is important, but often challenging.
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110. Make sure that your dog is not kept outside your home all day long. Yes, people do this too often, but dogs require interactions with people and other dogs for their well-being. When your dog is the only one you have, leaving him alone will make him sad. It's especially important that your dog be inside if the weather outside is nasty.
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112. Don't be upset if your dog does not want to get dressed up. It's becoming more popular to dress your dog in dog clothes, but some dogs just don't like the feeling of having clothes on. If your dog does not relax after the clothing is on, you should remove the clothing to avoid your dog trying to remove it by itself.
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114. Know the symptoms of dehydration in your dog, as it is a common ailment that can be dangerous. Particularly during hot dry summer months, your dog may pant excessively and experience a loss of the elasticity of his skin. If you see this, encourage him to drink water and add a little Pedialyte to rehydrate him.
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116. When taking care of your dog's grooming needs, do not neglect their feet. Obviously, dog's do not wear shoes so their feet are exposed to the elements and could hurt their feet in debris outside. Look for any cuts or abrasions on their feet and if you find something serious, bring him or her to their vet.
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118. If you're on a tight budget at home, think carefully before getting a dog. They actually cost hundreds of dollars annually, but many people don't realize this until they've actually forked over the money. Depending on the size and regular maintenance requirements of your new dog, you could be getting in way over your head and forced to part with him later so make sure beforehand.
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120. Control your voice to control your dog. When he is a good boy, speak in a high-pitched voice and shower him with praise. When he misbehaves, use a very low and gruff voice to indicate your displeasure. Being consistent with this will help him learn faster, making training him much easier on you and him.
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122. Consider puppy training classes for your young pet. Puppies are eager to learn, and a class is a wonderful atmosphere to let them do so in. Classes are also often cheaper than individual lessons. This will teach your pup essential behavioral skills and allow the two of you bonding time too.
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125. Consider puppy training classes for your young pet. Puppies are eager to learn, and a class is a wonderful atmosphere to let them do so in. Classes are also often cheaper than individual lessons. PetsRoof.com do rabbits eat zucchini will teach your pup essential behavioral skills and allow the two of you bonding time too.
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127. It is important to train your dog as soon as you get him or her. Behavior that might seem cute as a puppy, can develop into bad habits as your dog matures. It is essential that your dog understands and obeys simple commands. Not only for your safety, but the safety of your dog as well.
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129. Make sure that you carry small bags and gloves with you while you are out walking your dog. If he uses the bathroom outside, it is your responsibility to clean up the mess. It is unsanitary for you to leave it there, and it some places you may receive heavy fines for that.
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131. Knowing the background of different dog breeds can help you in selecting the type of dog that will fit your lifestyle. Whether you are looking for a lapdog or a hunting partner, this article provides some valuable information. Remember the tips you have learned here when you visit breeders and pick out a puppy.
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133.  Looking For Help With Your Dog? Look No Further
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136. Are you looking for advice on being a better pet owner? Could you use a few tips on how to provide for your dog? You're in the perfect place. This article is bursting at the seams with tips, tricks, and suggestions, all of which will help you do right by your pet.
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138. Hugs are great, but steer clear of kisses. Kisses seem nice, but dogs have very dirty mouths. After all, dogs eat out of the garbage, drink from toilet bowls, and lick all over their body. It is an old wives' tale that dogs have cleaner months than humans. However, this simply is not the case.
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140. When you are training your dog, it is always best to incorporate the use of hand signals in addition to using verbal commands. Using hand gestures can help your dog to recognize commands quicker. Try both ways and see which is best for your dog.
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142. If your dog gets lost, it is very unlikely that you will see him again unless he has proper identification. Tags can come off, so the best option is a microchip. It is quick to put in your dog, and it causes minimal discomfort. Simply register the chip ID after it is put in, and your pet will always have his identification with him.
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144. If your dog has fleas, and they fall off his coat onto your floor, vacuum them up. However, remember that fleas are pretty good escape artists, so you need to throw out the bag immediately after you are finished. To be on the safe side, tape the bag completely shut before you take it out to your trash can.
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146. Although the sound may be cute, your dog's nails shouldn't click along the floor when it walks. That's a sign that the nails are too long. The nails should actually just barely touch the ground. Seek the advice of a professional on what tools are the best for giving your dog a pedicure.
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148. Feed your dog dry, premium-quality dog food. This kind of dog food helps to make sure your dog gets all of their vital nutrients. Making sure that they get proper nutrition helps them live a longer life and reduces their chances of obesity, malnutrition, skeletal problems, muscular problems, and many more conditions.
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150. To protect your dog in the event he is lost or stolen, have a microchip surgically implanted by your vet. These handy chips store data that can be retrieved by a shelter or animal officer and used to contact you. They are painless to put in and offer peace of mind for the pet lover!
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152. If you want a dog that behaves well you must take the time to properly train it. If you do not do this then you will almost surely be dealing with behavioral problems for the length of the dog's life. Training is the only way that you can prevent this from happening.
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154. If you have tried everything to get your dog to stop digging your garden to no avail, head to your kitchen. Mix up a batch of cayenne pepper (five tablespoons), hot sauce (also five tablespoons) and a quart of water in a spray bottle and spray it where he digs. It should discourage him quickly.
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156. If you are looking for dog of a particular breed, don't discount your local pound. Many pet owners abandon their dogs at the pound when they no longer want to, or are able to, keep them. Paying a trip to your local shelter might help you to find the exact dog you have been searching for. You may save a poor dog's life if you do this.
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158. Use an olive oil spray to keep your dog's dish sparkling clean. Particularly if you feed him canned food, it can quickly cake-up and dry on the inside of the bowl, making it hard to wash later. As a bonus, the olive oil will help to keep his coat shiny too.
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160. It is very common for objects to get lodged in the pads of your dogs paws. Check them regularly to make sure that nothing is in there. If you see something, be very careful about taking it out, or it may become lodged even deeper. It is a wise to use tweezers for this.
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162. It's a good idea to keep an eye on what your dog is eating throughout its life. A puppy is fine with eating calorie-laden food, as it helps him grow. If an adult eats this food, he'll quickly become overweight and unhealthy.
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164. The kind of leash you use when walking your dog is very important. A small leash that would fit a small dog, like a chihuahua, is not going to fit a Rottweiler or pit bull. Get a leash that will fit your dog comfortably but also provided them with safety.
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166. If your dog is always drinking out of the toilet, try changing how you provide him with water. Most prefer it cold and fresh, hence the attraction to the bathroom, so buy a fountain or thermally insulated dish to keep his water at a more appealing temperature. Also, add ice-cubes when it's hot out and he's panting
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168. When training your dog, always make sure that you enter a room before allowing the dog to. This is important because it is an obvious form of dominance that your dog will understand. Establishing dominance will help with your ability to train your dog and with its overall behavior patterns.
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170. Teach your dog a few basic commands. Simple commands like sit, stay and heel are important for keeping your dog safe and helping him to become friendly around other people. Dogs can easily learn these commands in very little time, and lessons are available if you need some extra assistance.
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172. Puppies may be cute when biting on a slipper, but the cuteness fades when it turns into a dog who is ripping them apart. Stop these problems early. If he's doing something wrong, say "no" firmly. It is best to address this issue early.
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174. In sum, dogs offer a level of affection and love that is unrivaled. To get as much as possible out of the canine experience, you need to have the right knowledge. The article you have just read has provided you with excellent advice on how to raise the best dog. Use these tips and any others you find to become a great dog owner.
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176. Do you appreciate reading about Pets? Put feedback directly below. We will be pleased to find out your views about this page. We are looking forward to see you back again in the near future. Sharing is nice. Helping others is fun. Thanks for being here. Please check our website back soon.
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179. Website: https://championofmyheart.com/2021/08/05/dogs-with-skin-issues/