by Brian
(Ocala Florida)

My dog has developed a rash in his inner thighs that is getting worse by the day. Also his skin is flaking pretty badly back by his tail.

He moves around normally, doesn’t seem to be in pain. He is frequently licking it to keep it clean I suppose.

The rash on his inner thighs does not appear to be tender to the touch, although its pretty red and looks like it would be.

I have bathed him as usual. A friend of mine suggested I try BANIXX. Also to try a citronella shampoo. I have used over half of the bottle of Banixx and it does not appear to be getting any better. The directions for the BANIXX recommend applying it, liberally, 4 times a day. That is almost impossible with my work schedule. So perhaps I am not using it properly.

My dog is a 3 1/2 year old, male, Coon hound mix (I think Shephard…?). Normally very healthy and active. He is bathed regularly…LOVES to take a bath!

We live in North-central Florida. Fleas are a big problem here. But I have been able to keep the fleas “in check” by frequent baths.

Funds are REALLY tight for me right now and I need some advise on what I can do to help him out. Obviously I will take him in to the Veterinarian if need be, I am looking for some guidance right now.

I have read some related questions on your web site and see a few suggestions but want to know what’s best for this situation.

Thank you! I appreciate your time on this.

Brian

Comments for Dog Inner Thigh Rash Getting Worse with Skin Flaking By Tail

Oct 26, 2012My Online Vet Response for: Dog Inner Thigh Rash Getting Worse with Skin Flaking by Tail
by: Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

Hi Brian,
Yes, I agree, Florida is the ‘Flea Capital’ of the world. I graduated from the U of Florida Vet School, so I should know!

From the photos of your dog’s inner thigh area, and the severe amount of excoriation from self trauma, I am VERY suspicious he has a flea allergy and the skin has now developed a superficial bacterial infection.

Here’s the plan:

1. Prevent him from chewing/licking his hind end area. He may need to wear an E-collar or wear Boxer shorts (his tail goes out the ‘fly’).

2. Bathe his inner thigh areas with baby shampoo ONE time daily for at least 3 days. Rinse and dry well. Then continue TWO times per week for the next 3-6 weeks.

We are trying to control the bacterial infection by keeping the area clean and dry and keeping his mouth away from it!

3. No topical ointments. I am not familiar with the Banixx product, and there were no ingredients listed. This is what I could find:
“Banixx™ has been used successfully to treat infections on Parrots, Falcons, Llamas, Alpacas, Show Sheep, Cows, Pigs, Dogs and Puppies, Cats and Kittens, Ferrets and even a one-month old foal. It has proven indispensable in the aid of hot spots, allergies, bites and wounds as well as ear fungus in dogs. Unrivaled for cracked, dry nose or paw pads and blade burns, this non-stinging formula boasts no odor, no color, no steroids, and no antibiotics. It can also be used with confidence around the eye. Best of all, it is made right here in the USA!”

I am worried if you apply anything to his skin, it will make him want to lick it off, and cause more irritation.

4. CONTROL FLEAS–frequent bathing does not ‘keep the fleas in check’. It may decrease some of the fleas on your dog, but does not control the flea eggs, larvae and immature fleas in the environment!

See our page on Dog Flea Treatment. Also, check out “>EVOLV, made from cedar oil as a flea/tick preventive. If he needs something MORE effective than the EVOLV, while you are controlling fleas in the house and yard, you MAY need to use Advantage topically.

5. DIET: He needs moisture in his diet to maintain healthy skin and hair. DRY DOG food is NOT healthy. And if he gets frequent flea shampoos, that will dry out his skin even more! (baby shampoo is ok, and will NOT dry out his skin).

See our page on 10 Best Dog Food Options and consider a RAW diet for your dog.

He may also need to have Omega 3 fish oil added to his food, 500-1,000mg daily to provide essential fatty acids that may help to relieve the allergic reaction and decrease the itching.

TO BE CONTINUED IN PART TWO


Oct 26, 2012My Online Vet Response for: Dog Inner Thigh Rash getting worse with skin flaking by tail PART TWO
by: Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

Hi Brian,
Here is the continuation of my response.

If he is getting worse, then by all means seek the help of a local holistic veterinarian.

Another resource for vets knowledgeable in homeopathy is AVH.org.

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the ‘click here to add your own comments’ link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

Related Pages:
Dog Flea Medicine, Treatment & Prevention,
Ask a Vet Online Library – Dog Fleas & Ticks Section
Dog Skin Conditions,
Dog Itchy Skin,
Dog Skin Rash,
Dog Skin Allergies,
Ask a Vet Online Library – Dog Skin Rashes, Marks, Spots, Lesions & Patches (including itchy skin and mange) Section

DISCLAIMER: The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.



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