My dog's skin is worse, tests negative. What could be the cause?

Question

Hi, I'm fostering a dog, Shelby, that had puppies 9 weeks ago and was a stray. I'm had her for about 6 weeks and she's been great. Last week I noticed she had some skin problems, her fur was course and falling out a lot and she had redness around her shoulders neck. I took her to vet and they did a skin scraping for mange and it came back negative and also for bacteria or fungus and those were also negative. She was given a steroid shot on Wednesday, it is now the next Monday and it looks wors. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 50 lbs

Jessica Desrosiers · Accepted Answer

Poor pup! If the skin scraping came out negative for bacterial and fungal causes, allergies are another possibility. If the area resolved with the steroid, but then returned once it wore off this may be another indicator of this. Sometimes the environment, too frequent of bathing and food allergies can all trigger it. If she's still nursing you may not want to change diets on her, but adding in a supplement such as fish oil can be a safe way to help soothe the skin and add some extra nutrition. If you do suspect allergies, you can talk to your vet about trying a safe antihistamine or other medication. Keeping her from scratching and chewing on the area with the use of an old t-shirt or Elizabethan (cone) collar can also help reduce irritation and let it heal.

My dog's skin is worse, tests negative. What could be the cause?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?

Share