My 14 year old terrier dog has gradually been been developing mucus allover his body which feels like crust when petted. It is very raw, itchy, and sensitive to touch. He also, although seemingly healthy, has blasts of energy and then can not move for a very long time. I took him to several vets and they found nothing wrong with him, however, I know there is. Will any of you kind people tell me what could be wrong with my dog so I can find proper treatments? Could it be a parasite such as ringworm? Please, please, help my dog! Or does it sound like its time out, anyway, and I should put him to sleep?
2006-06-23 03:29:35 · 12 answers · asked by blah 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
This sounds like it's going to cost you a fortune trying to diagnose and treat - and at his age, it's not likely to be successful. The skin is a major organ, just like the heart, and advanced skin disease is a sign that his body is breaking down due to extreme old age. If he's suffering (and raw and itchy skin would definitely cause agony) or not having many good days anymore, I'd say it's time to put him to sleep. It's really sad and I'm sorry for your loss, but that's what I'd do.
2006-06-23 06:24:34 · answer #1 · answered by Danger, Will Robinson! 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try going to a vet that specializes in dermatology, or geriatric care.
It sounds like he might be getting hot spots, but I can't imagine that those vets wouldn't recognize that. As far as the energy problem, he may be having problems with arthritis. Especially if he tends to be unable to move during certain times of the day.
When looking for a veterinarian, a great vet understands that nobody knows your dog better than you, so even if they doubt your instincts, they are willing to listen and act appropriately. if you need any help finding some good vets in your area, feel free to contact me.
2006-06-23 11:21:40 · answer #2 · answered by Terra 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What you are describing is called a staff infection (of the skin). I know this because my very old springer spaniel who passed away several months ago had it. If treated, your dog will be fine. You need to take him to the vet and they will probably put him on steroids as well as some special shampoo to clean up his fur.
2006-06-23 14:01:09 · answer #3 · answered by weneedmorebeermoney 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Until you can find out what it has on its skin, you can use a medicated shampoo or an oatmeal shampoo to relieve the itching.. I have found that most elderly dogs do get somekind of skin problems..you may want to change his food also. He definately needs to be on a senior formula.
2006-06-23 10:34:35 · answer #4 · answered by spaceytracey3 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Crust, raw, itchy.... and several vets found nothing?
Sounds like mange. Take him to a vet.
2006-06-23 10:50:19 · answer #5 · answered by A Great Dane Lady 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
sounds like mange and it sounds like you need a new vet. ask for a mange test. its treatable in most instances. if its not mange, it could be another infection of some sort. either way, your vet should have run tests on the dog to at least rule out any infections.
2006-06-23 15:01:45 · answer #6 · answered by needlefire05 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It could be allergies. Try bathing him real good with a medicated shampoo them apply cortison cream. If they begin to clear up, then he probably needs a monthly allergy shot. My dog was allergic to fleas and he used to get raw, oozey places but the allergy shots helped him.
2006-06-23 11:13:20 · answer #7 · answered by just1dot 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
dont put him to sleep unless it is absolutely nessacerry. try a different vet or some colleges have animal hospitals that take in sick pets and for research.
2006-06-23 10:34:56 · answer #8 · answered by BreyB 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
comb all the mucus out or go to a vetinerian also give it a bath with oatmeal shampoo that does not effect there skin
2006-06-23 10:33:42 · answer #9 · answered by ThEmAn 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Does it smell? Might be a yeast infection due to a poor immune system. Take him to a specialist.
2006-06-23 10:33:28 · answer #10 · answered by KathyS 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋