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Cocker has dry spots

Sent to Pet Experts June 15 06:44 PM

My 3 1/2 year old cocker developed dry spots on his skin about a month ago that were spreading The vet said it was ringworm and gave him pills. They did not do a thing but make him lose his appetite. I got a shampoo from my cousin(works at a different vet)called Malabesto I think. I bathed him in that twice a week for 3 weeks. It seemed to have worked a little. I got a second opinion finally and they told me to get an allergy test done. The spots are small(dime size)to large(1/2 dollar size). He his losing and has lost his hair in these spots. They just keep spreading. They are mainly on his back, neck, and butt. His skin is also turning from a pink to a brownish black color where these spots have been and where they are now. Please help me. My dog is like my child, I love him very much. His personality has not changed at all. He just has these dry spots that are changing the color of his skin and losing his hair.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
June 15 8:29 PM (1 hour and 44 minutes and 48 seconds later)
         
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If you suspect ringworm, you can try an over the counter anti-fungal cream that people use for athlete's foot. If it's ringworm, you will see improvement with this. If not, you know that you are dealing with something else.

This can sometimes be caused by allergies.

There are some simple things you can do if your dog might be suffering from allergies.

I would talk with the vet about a different low allergy diet, one that will have the least reaction.

You should also get her on a flea preventative if she is not already. Even if you don't see fleas, it only takes one to get the cycle started. Some dogs are highly allergic to flea bites.

I would also use a prescribed dose of benadryl, especially during allergy season.

Keep in mind that dogs can have allergies to pollen, dust and other household allergens so you should evaluate your home and try to make it as allergy free as you possibly can for her.

It sounds like the dog might also have a secondary bacterial or fungal infection. This is usually secondary to allergies and itching. This means that the secondary problem is caused by the primary.

When dogs scratch, they abrade the skin and allow bacterial and funguses to enter the skin. The result is a bacterial or fungal infection.

You need to see the vet so that they can get a culture and tell you what kind of treatment is necessary.

While you are there, you should also speak with the vet about a supplement that has omega three fatty acids. Good skin starts from the inside out and this can be very beneficial.

Let me know if you still have specific questions about this.

Reply
June 15 9:46 PM (1 hour and 16 minutes and 54 seconds later)
         
Reply to Tammy Falkner's Post: Thank you very much. It is nice to get a straight and clear answer to my question. Thanks again!!
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