Tiny Chihuahua With Crusting Skin: Allergy or Pemphigus?
Reader Question
My female chihuahua is 3 pounds 14 oz This all started when she was 4 months old. Her appetite was not good she had red inflamed ears, anal gland issues (diarrhea) licks paws (swollen) nasal drip, watery eyes, scabs, nose pustules, rat like tail, Pustules down her back with loss of all hair, super dryness, peeling of skin. Lethargic... Vet put her on prednisone and gave her injections she seemed to do better with some of the symptoms leaving her and then i put her on Dr.Harveys canine food for 12 days with grains she broke out even worse. She has been reduced on the pred because she is gaining weight rapidly. Now she looks like in the beginning (lethargic, itchy, feeling hot to the touch. Her appetite is still good. Has anyone tried immune no prescription therapies? Do they help? She was on clavamox but it has done nothing. Are there any natural antibiotic things to try that have worked? She has been to 4 vets. Spent alot of money on different products that have not worked. She needs something for the crusts on her back. She looks like she has elephant skin. Any hints or tricks will be greately appreciated. The vet said she had pemphigus fol. Skin scaraping neg.
Answer from Our Team
Pemphigus foliaceus is an immune disease that causes pustules and crusts, often on the face, ears and back, and it's diagnosed with a skin biopsy. Allergies can look similar, which is why a biopsy is so useful. Pemphigus usually needs immune-suppressing medicine, which your vet will tailor to her small size and adjust to the lowest effective level.
There are no proven natural or non-prescription treatments for pemphigus. Ask about a biopsy if it wasn't done, and a referral to a veterinary dermatologist, who can suggest steroid-sparing options and medicated baths for the crusts.
See dog allergies.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.
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