Why is my senior dog's skin flaking, painful, and spreading?

Question

My dogs skin is coming off in flakes and scales. From her feet to her muzzle to her back now. Her skin hurts her, she doesn't want anyone to touch her or pet her. Every now and then she will jump up and run and look behind her like something bit her. She does not have fleas. Please any ideas would help! Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | spayed | 14 years and 2 months old

Jeffrey Milner · Accepted Answer

If she is having a rapidly spreading skin condition, Lucy should be seen by a veterinarian to have the skin checked. At the vet, they will be able to do scrapings, cultures, and biopsies. Most importantly, they will be able to prescribe medications to help relieve the pain and itchiness that Lucy is currently experiencing. She also likely will require an e-collar to prevent her in the short-term from itching herself raw. As for what it might be, it sounds like there could be an infection of the skin that started somewhere and is spreading rearward. There are autoimmune conditions and allergies that can affect the skin in the ways that you are describing, but that latter do not typically cause the scaliness you are talking about. Unfortunately, with a 14 year old dog, we also need to consider more serious conditions as well such as certain skin cancers. Your vet should definitely take a look at what is going on you guys can come up with a plan together.

Why is my senior dog's skin flaking, painful, and spreading?

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