Strange dog skin problem

Hi Anna,
Although I cannot argue with the Histopath report because it has identified what the exact tissue is made of, I can tell you that I have seen similar benign 'growths' in large breed dogs. These are always located in areas of pressure points such as the elbows, chest or hocks, especially dogs that are laying on a concrete (or other hard) surface.

Normally these areas will develop a callus, but if there is glandular tissue, especially if your dog is not spayed, it would cause irritation and tend to make the tissue develop this type of 'proliferation'.

If she is not spayed, then spaying her might help to decrease any hormonal stimulation to the breast tissue, and help to shrink it.

You wrote that she "now 'leaks' it often". I think you meant to write that she now LICKS it often. As there may be minor dryness, and cracking/irritation/bacteria in the tissue folds.

1. Provide her with a good padded surface to lay on at all times.

2. Keep this area clean, by washing with a mild Baby shampoo or oatmeal shampoo two times per week.

3. It might make her more comfortable to massage in coconut oil into the area to make the skin softer. Allow it to soak in for 3-4 hours, then wash off with Dawn dish soap (if it is still greasy) or oatmeal shampoo, if it is not greasy.

4. Make her wear a T-shirt to protect this area from constant irritation when she lays down and to prevent her from licking it too much.

She also needs MORE moisture in her diet. Since she is a giant breed dog, it may be expensive, but I suggest a RAW diet as the healthiest. At least consider more fresh meat, and vegetables/canned food, etc added to less dry food (such as the canned dog foods recommended here).

ALSO add Omega 3 fish oils to her diet, 1,000-2,000 mg one to two times daily.

NO more vaccinations. According to Dr. Pitcairn, in his book, " Natural Health for Dogs and Cats", giving a vaccine to a dog with cancer (or growths) is like throwing gasoline on a fire. Seek the help of a holistic veterinarian to write an exemption for no more vaccinations for her.

TO BE CONTINUED IN PART TWO

Hi Anna,
Here is the rest of my response.

Click here to find a holistic veterinarian in your area. Another resource for vets knowledgeable in homeopathy is AVH.org.

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the 'click here to add your own comments' link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

P.S. If you've found this service or our web site helpful, please "Like" us by clicking the like button at the top of the left margin. Thank you!

DISCLAIMER: The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

Related Pages:
- Dog Skin Conditions,
- Ask a Vet Online Library - Dog Skin Rashes, Marks, Spots, Lesions & Patches (including itchy skin and mange) Section,