My senior dog has a sore back scab, flaky skin, and weak legs. Why?

Question

11 yr old Bichon poo has quarter sized scab on back growth overnight about 6 inches from tail.Cracked bled which possibly led to scab. Skin was flaking for couple weeks so I rubbed coconut oil on back and then this happened. He eats home cooked diet, possibly not getting enuf supplements. Always hungry no vomiting or bathroom issues but muscle weakness in back leg. Scab area sore to touch when applying neosporin. Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 10 years and 11 months old | 28 lbs

Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA · Accepted Answer

I would have Yankee examined by a vet. This doesn't look like a scab in the pictures. I would be concerned about infection, a bleeding disorder, skin cancer, or autoimmune disease. A vet will do a better examination, and may recommend a biopsy for diagnosis. Home-cooked diets are great for dogs, but they should be balanced by a veterinary nutritionist. They need certain amounts of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, and may need an additional vitamin supplement to make up for any nutritional deficiencies. Your vet can refer you to a nutritionist that can probably do an online or phone consultation.

My senior dog has a sore back scab, flaky skin, and weak legs. Why?

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?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

Share