Skin Lumps/Lesions on Flank - Allergic Reaction or Unhealthy Skin?

by Denise Libby
(Coral Springs, FL)

Skin Lumps

Approx. two weeks ago little bumps appeared on her flank. They grew in diameter and then began appearing all over her body. The bump oozes (no pus) and scabs. Approx. 50 - 75 sites from head to toe.

Regular vet did needle aspiration of 4 sites with no real diagnosis (due to poor collection). Wanted to put her on antibiotics and do biopsy.

Holistic Vet put her on congeplex and dermal support as he is unsure what this is.

She is not itching, but seems uncomfortable. Wears blow up e collar to prevent licking.

Would like some direction as to what this is and how to care for it.

12 year old spayed female golden retriever. Raw food/home cooked diet only.

3 months ago had liver lobectomy due to benign hyperplastic nodule.

Comments for
Skin Lumps/Lesions on Flank - Allergic Reaction or Unhealthy Skin?

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Dr. Carol Jean Tillman's Response
by: Online Vet Response

Hi Denise,
The photo you posted shows lesions that I would consider to be more typical of an allergic reaction and more typical of unhealthy skin, that is slow to heal. Especially considering how quickly they have appeared, and how fast they have spread. You did not mention if she has had any blood work done. A blood sample would be helpful in differentiating between an infection vs an allergy.Also, a culture & sensitivity would tell if there is a bacterial cause.

If she has been on a raw diet all of her life, she should be pretty healthy. Therefore, I would look for recent exposure to vaccinations, drugs, (such as the anesthesia she had for the liver lobectomy), any other toxins in her environment, pesticides, fertilizer. or even exposure to insects.
The cause of the problem will determine the treatment. In the meantime, providing internal support for her immune system, and external support for her skin will be best. Such as bathing with an oatmeal/aloe shampoo, and supplementing with Vitamin C, (the buffered form) and Immuplex, a glandular supplement to support the immune system.

I would also check the Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy site for a veterinarian trained in homeopathy. A diagnosis is not really necessary to treat the disease, since homeopathic remedies are selected based on the symptoms of the patient.

Please keep us posted by adding comments further down this page.

Take care,

Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

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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
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Related Pages:
- Dog Warts,
- Dog Skin Conditions,
- Ask a Vet Online Library - Dog Warts, Cysts and Strange Growths Section

Have you thought of Yeast problem?
by: Anonymous

My dog had the same problem but scabbed over, then the pus and open wound she also had under armpits had a yeasty white substance with little blisters and black greasy stuff on inside of her little legs.

I used peroxide on a cotton ball and it went away. Today it was confirmed she does have a yeast skin problem and bacterial infection (bumps). My poor baby girl - I thought it was just tough dirt as she is short legged. I am glad I found out and she is a happier dog. There are shampoos that also help these issue's.

Oh, and the first time we took her to the vet he said it was allergies. WRONG! We were persistent about finding the problem. I had a friend her dog got so bad she thought of putting him down. Then she discovered it was a yeast skin problem with bacterial infections also! So just hang tough and take a break for half a day when you get frustrated but... stay with it!

re the yeast infection & bumps
by: Anonymous

Anonymous, thank you for your input. I landed here today after Google-ing about my 3 yr old schnauzer's itchy lumps/bumps AND those little red pimply things that are itchy, and when they burst and the little bit of puss comes out they become a larger weeping sore that drives her nuts. Her discomfort & itching & licking is so upsetting to watch.

I use a 2mg tablet of Polaramine which a compound Chemist told me would be OK for her size, to soooth her distress BUT how to resolve the problem?

I know it's a form of allergy and her immune system is weakened due to a life threatening episode a year ago & life support for 10 days. It was a miracle she survived, so it's awful to see her suffering daily now.

QUESTION: Did the peroxide work for the lesions and the bumps too? What strength peroxide did you use? I'm worried I will cause more problems!

Releated symptoms
by: Anonymous

My dog has the same condition and I find the scabs come away taking some hairy from the coat with it, are there any other ill affects this condition can cause, such as loss of bladder control, or persistent drinking of water and/or a chesty cough.

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