Food Allergies and Skin Problems

Question:

Dear Dr. Smith:

I have a female yorkie that is going on 8 yrs old and at around 3 or 4 yrs. she started having awful skin flaking that was kind of greasy and very smelly.  I have tried numerous things to try to help her, but haven't been too successful.  Some things that I have tried are medicated shampoos and conditioners, something called "Nzymes", holistic foods and treats and more recently the vet started allergy shots.  The shots seemed to help at first but then after the second time she got one it didn't seem to help as long.  When her skin is really bothering her she acts as though she is paranoid almost like something is after her.  She also licks her feet constantly.  I have wondered if her immune system is just really out of wack.  I am so frustrated !!!  We love her so much and she acts so restless all the time so I know she is miserable.  Any suggestions would greatly be appreciated.

Thank you, Connie V.

Response:

Hello Connie,
Thank you for your inquiry to Holistic Pet Info. Your dog licking her feet is a primary indicator of food allergies. Even though she has been on holistic diets, an allergy is specific to a particular protein or carbohydrate. She can be eating the best diet but if she has an allergy to a specific food it will continually manifest as a skin reaction. The chief allergens are chicken, beef, corn, wheat, rice and soy.

I highly suggest you place your dog on a food elimination trial using a “novel” protein and carbohydrate. This is offering a protein and carbohydrate that she has never eaten before. She also may respond better to a well-balanced home cooked diet. This will eliminate food dyes, preservatives and additive fillers.

I also recommend supplementing with probiotics such as Vetri-Probiotics BD Vetri-Science to support immune health and Ultimate Skin and Coat by NaturVet to maintain skin health.

She may also have an additional environmental allergy, which may manifest seasonally. These allergies often will diminish when a concurrent food allergy is resolved. Best of Luck.

Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM,CVA