Scabbed skin, Swollen red back paws, her belly is dried out, hot spots and dried skin. When wiped a brown substance comes off, sloughing skin and flaking with a bad odor
It sounds like your dog is dealing with some significant skin issues, which can certainly be uncomfortable for her. The symptoms you've described, including scabbing, redness, excessive itching, hair loss, a bad odor, and the presence of fleas or ticks, suggest she might be experiencing a combination of skin infections, allergies, or parasitic infestations.
To help manage her symptoms at home until you can see a veterinarian, here are a few steps you can take:
Firstly, since fleas are present, it's important to ensure her flea collar is effective. You might want to consider using a different form of flea control, such as topical treatments or oral medications, which can often be more effective. However, it's best to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to her flea control regimen.
Bathing her gently with a hypoallergenic or medicated shampoo designed for dogs with sensitive skin can help soothe her skin and remove allergens or irritants. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and dry her completely to prevent further irritation.
Applying a pet-safe moisturizer or coconut oil to the dry areas can help soothe and hydrate her skin. It's important to avoid using human products, as they can be harmful to dogs.
Ensuring she is on a high-quality diet that supports skin health is also crucial. Sometimes, dietary changes can make a significant difference, especially if allergies are a contributing factor.
Additionally, keeping her environment clean and free from potential allergens is important. Regularly washing her bedding and vacuuming the areas where she spends most of her time can help reduce exposure to irritants.
Given the severity of her symptoms and the presence of a bad odor, which can indicate an infection, it's crucial to have her examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can perform a thorough examination and possibly run tests to determine the underlying cause, prescribing appropriate treatments such as antibiotics or antifungal medications if needed.
If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.
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