My Shih Tzu has body sores. Is it autoimmune or allergies? What helps?

Question

My shih Tzu keeps getting sores all over her body. We have tried apoquel, Benadryl, and prednisone. The only thing that has worked was the prednisone but her sores came back after stopping it. Her vet thinks it is an autoimmune disease and wants to put her on an immunosuppressive dose of prednisone. Does this sound like it’s autoimmune and how dangerous is it to suppress her immune system? Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 9 years and 1 month old | 18 lbs

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Mollie! I wouldn’t do immunosuppressive doses of steroids without a biopsy. I would try a prescription hydrolzed diet like Royal Canin ultimino, put her on Bravecto, nexgard or simparica to cover for demodex and flea allergy dermatitis, omega 3 fish oil, allergy test her and try cytopoint. I think she has allergies. Most dogs with allergic skin disease need to be on multiple medications and special food. If that doesn’t work consider a boarded veterinary dermatologist. Then consider biopsy of the skin. I hope this helps and I wish Mollie the best!

My Shih Tzu has body sores. Is it autoimmune or allergies? What helps?

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