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We have a 22 mo. old Keeshond who has exhibited allergic symptoms for the past 2 summers. Jack is a house dog, but also spends time outside for his walks, bathroom episodes and play time when we are out with him. His allergic reaction manifests itself on his abdominal and genital area, with some spots on the inner back legs. Last summer, he went through a regimen of antiobiotics and prednisone from May-September. This year, the symptoms presented themselves in May, but have lasted until October. The sores on his abdomen were much worse this year and he has
been through 4 courses of antibiotics and prednisone treatments. During this last episode, his sores on his abdomen were much worse even after the treatment ended. Our vet has suggested that we start tryinig to "rule out" other factors. A biopsy is scheduled for tomorrow, which I'm OK with. My concern is the continued use of
prednisone, which has caused Jack to gain 11 lb.s since May 2006, and the fact that the allergy (allergies) seem to be seasonal. What advice, if any, do you recommend? Jack is also taking a VitaCap (Omega fatty acid supplement) and Biotin (additional fatty acid supplement) daily to help with the allergy problem. Our vet also wants to do
allergy testing as soon as the medications can be flushed from his system (probably Nov. or Dec.). Our boy is miserable and we don't know what to do other that what we've already done (vet visits, medication, etc.). Anything you can suggest will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time.

Optional Information:
Age: 2; Male; Breed: Keeshond

Already Tried:
Vet prescribed antibiotic, vet prescribed prednisone, fatty acid supplements, hypo-allergenic pet food, anti-bacterial wipes, "Itch-Stop" spray, cold cloths, cortisone cream.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $15

Sounds to me like your vet is pointing you in the right direction as far as the biopsy, allergy testing, and the EFA supplements.
And, yes, your pet will need to be off steroids for 2 months or more when the allergy testing is done. This includes oral as well as topical steroids.
Another suggestion is bacterial and fungal cultures to identify the type of infection and what medication would be best for treating it.
Pet's will become more hungry while on steroids, however, as difficult as it is, it is up to you to help with preventing weight gain. He should be allowed to have as much water as he wants(steroids casue an increase in thirst as well) but food should not be increased.
Sometimes these allergic guys need antibiotic therapy for 2 consecutive months or more. (even if their symptoms have cleared) The symptoms that you are seein are secondary to an underlying problem which very well could be seasonal allergies.
Depending on the type of allergy testing (skin or blood test) you may be able to use antihistimines such as benadryl to help him get through the "no-steroid" period. The lab that runs the test will have specific guidelines to follow.
Once you have the results of allergy testing, the lab can formulate an allergen specific to his needs. This would require you or your vet to give him allergy injections to help desensitize him.
You should make sure that he is on a quality flea preventative year round as many dogs are highly allergic to flea bites. My suggestion would be Revolution as it prevents heartworm, fleas, and sarcoptic mange.
Lastly, there are pet dermatologists. It sounds like your vet is on the right track, but if you want another opinion, seek one from a specialist.
Let me know if you need more help.

Edited by zenequin on September 28 2006 at 11:43 PM

Michele
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Reply to michele's Post: I guess what I'm feeling now is that Jack is just miserable. He is no the same dog as he was 6 months ago and I'm very concerned about the steroids. I've decided to go ahead with the biopsy, but the allergy testing will have to be done in another city, as we don't have a specialist here. We have not increased food intake during the course of medication, and our vet has already done some skin testing here, with negative results for fungus, mites, etc. Jack has been on Pro-Line Plus (which our vet recommended) since we brought him home in Feb. of 2005. Thank you for your time and response.

Short-term use of steroids at low doses do not usually cause problems. To be certain that he is not suffering from any complications from the steroids you may want to ask your vet to run a blood test (CBC/Chmeistry) to check his liver, kidneys, white blood cells, etc.
I know what it is to have a miserable allergic dog. My dog is highly allergic to wheat, dust, flea saliva, cat dander, and the list goes on.
If Jack does have food allergies in addition to seasonal ones, he may benefit from Hills Z/D(prescription food) Ask your vet about it.
Sorry for your poor itchy guy. When they are miserable, we are miserable. Best of luck to you and Jack.

Edited by zenequin on September 29 2006 at 12:04 AM

Michele
If my answer has helped you, please hit ACCEPT. Positive feedback is always appreciated.

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