Quote:
Originally Posted by gzarr  Thank you both so much for the replies on the yeast issues. I, too, like Nadia considered whether Dozer's life was even pleasant enough to continue. The chronic ear problems, itching, chewing paws till bleeding...and all the crying!!! (Him and me  ). You're probably right in that he's systemic with the yeast. It's a guarantee that an ear problem will surface every 5 months or so; sooner if we don't keep the enzyme in his ears the vet gave us.
So what is Fluconazole? How's it work? No, we haven't done the skin scraping, fungal tests...but isn't yeast a fungas?
About the vaccinating--we don't immunize our children, but I thought it's law to vaccinate your animals.
Dozer HAS seen certain improvements now he's been on total raw diet. But is it possible that he could also be allergic to a certain type of animal (Cow, deer, etc.) on top of a yeasty system? |
You're welcome
. Actually, w/ such a chronic problem - I'm a little shocked your vet hasn't done cultures. I mean, it's always best to confirm what's going on and what the actual bug is. Also, there are many different types of yeast - and some are more resistant than others. Are you comfortable your vet has really given this the attention it needs? And why haven't probiotics been suggested, I wonder? Those are essential for recovery from yeast, esp. if systemic yeast is suspected.
Fluconazole is used in humans and dogs for treatment of yeast. You'd probably want a suspension formulated if your dog is small - otherwise pills if a small enough dosage can be found. Since this could be a chronic problem, I'd want to give it 2x daily for at least 2-3 weeks. And, if it is indeed yeast - add a probiotic asap.
You also mentioned he smells bad - this could also indicate yeast, but seborrhea should be ruled out as well. Really, I can't recommend highly enough that you get an absolute diagnosis through a culture - otherwise, how does one really know what they're treating?
He could be allergic to food, yes, but that would be so tough to tell w/ what you have going on here. The more common meat allergens are beef and chicken; other more common food allergens are soy, corn, wheat, egg etcetera.
Keep us posted, I really hope you can find a solution!