Persistent Red Rash on Inside of Dog's Legs - Superficial Skin Fold Dermatitis

by Lilain
(Turlock, CA)

Border Terrier Rash

My three year old (approx.) Border Terrier has a persistent red rash on the inside of both legs. The rash is about five inches long on the inside of both legs (where the legs meet the body).

He does not naturally have hair in this area so it is easy to see. It has been present for about a month and a half.

It tends to vary in degree of redness--sometimes it appears to be light pink, and other times it is a darker or bright pink (usually appearing worst at night when he licks at it the most). I have noticed little raised spots (goosebumps size) in the rash after he has licked it (the rash as a whole is not raised like a human hive).

Also, the rash itself may appear blotchy. A while back, I took him to the vet regarding his skin--he had small red patches on some areas of his body. The vet informed me that it was skin irritation and it was typical of his breed--he tends to scratch a bit or be itchy.

My vet prescribed Benadryl for his other skin irritations, so I have given this medication in hopes that this inner leg rash would get better, but it does not seem to help. He does not spend much time outdoors (just for walks and to go to the bathroom). He doesn't scratch at the rash...he can't reach. He only licks at it--but he doesn't lick at it constantly, just on occasion. He also tends to get ear infections. His behavior has been normal.

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Persistent Red Rash on Inside of Dog's Legs - Superficial Skin Fold Dermatitis

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Online Response for Red Rash on Inside of Dog's Legs
by: Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

Hi Lilane,
From the photo that you sent, it looks like your dog may have a superficial skin fold dermatitis, usually caused by bacteria in the skin. I think that the cause of the rash becoming darker at times, is because of 'trauma' to the skin whenever your dog is licking that area. But I am also concerned that he may have some ruptured capillaries, bruises called 'petechiae'. This may indicate a more serious disease, such as Autoimmune Hemolytic anemia, or thrombocytopenia, (having a low platelet count).

You also mentioned that there were some small red patches on other areas of his skin. If these were also in skin fold areas (armpits, under chin, behind ears, etc) it may be due to the same type of bacterial infection. And having problems with ear infections, indicates that he has some chronic issues. These may be due to a poor immune system, too many vaccinations, poor diet, or food allergy (Benadryl does not help a food allergy).

I would suggest finding a holistic veterinarian near you by checking our Dog Vet Care page. He or she will make a more thorough exam, and may suggest a blood panel, stool sample, and urinalysis. These tests can diagnose an autoimmune condition, or low platelet count. A holistic veterinarian will then be able to advise you on the best diet, immune supplements, and bathing that would be useful in helping your dog.

A homeopathic work-up would also lead to the most appropriate homeopathic remedy, to return your dog to good health. Treating with an anti-histamine like Benadryl is not really going to help in the long run.

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

DISCLAIMER: This educational advice is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. 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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Submitted by: Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

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Comment
 Hi Lilane, From the photo that you sent, it looks like your dog may have a superficial skin fold dermatitis, usually caused by bacteria in the skin. I think that the cause of the rash becoming darker at times, is because of 'trauma' to the skin whenever your dog is licking that area. But I am also concerned that he may have some ruptured capillaries, bruises called 'petechiae'. This may indicate a more serious disease, such as Autoimmune Hemolytic anemia, or thrombocytopenia, (having a low platelet count). <span style="text-align:left; float:left; width:250px; margin: 5px 8px 5px 0;"> <script type="text/javascript"> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> </span> You also mentioned that there were some small red patches on other areas of his skin. If these were also in skin fold areas (armpits, under chin, behind ears, etc) it may be due to the same type of bacterial infection. And having problems with ear infections, indicates that he has some chronic issues. These may be due to a poor immune system, too many vaccinations, poor diet, or food allergy (Benadryl does not help a food allergy). I would suggest finding a holistic veterinarian near you by checking our <a href="http://www.organic-pet-digest.com/dog-vet-care.html">Dog Vet Care</a> page. He or she will make a more thorough exam, and may suggest a blood panel, stool sample, and urinalysis. These tests can diagnose an autoimmune condition, or low platelet count. A holistic veterinarian will then be able to advise you on the best diet, immune supplements, and bathing that would be useful in helping your dog. A homeopathic work-up would also lead to the most appropriate homeopathic remedy, to return your dog to good health. Treating with an anti-histamine like Benadryl is not really going to help in the long run. 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 DISCLAIMER: This educational advice is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. 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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