My Itchy Shih Tzu ; shih tzu allergies; shih tzu hair loss; shih tzu ear infections ;

Question
My 3 year old Shih Tzu Hana, has been suffering from what our vet says are allergies, for the past 2 years.  She first had ear infections at under a year old.  Then began the stinky face and itchy skin.  Our vet had us change her food (She now eats Prescription Diet Canine ZD Ultra Allergen, Dry and Wet food. (We are in Canada).  The smelly face cleared up but she just keeps going in cycles of Itchy skin (steroids)....flaky scabs (Antibiotics).  She settles for a bit then it starts all over again.  I read your advice about Flora Force (for Yeast overgrowth) and I have started her on it today.  Should I be stopping her steroid medication completely?  She has been getting 1/4  pill 2x per day as she was so itchy, then I taper them off as my vet instructed.  She has just finished a 21 day run of antibiotics for her skin infection caused from all of the scratching.  I think she has a yeast overgrowth problem, and I'm hoping the Flora Force will control this and stop her skin issues.  We are supposed to have her tested for Allergies in the fall but I wonder if she should be tested at all.  I would really like your advice for my poor little Hana. The skin on her belly is blackened as well.  What regimen should she be on? Thankyou.

Answer
shih tzu ear infections and itching ;  RX diet Z/d ultra dry dog food;  NuVET Canada;
Let me know if you try any of my suggestions?
HOPE Hana feels better soon!
Pet Nurse Marie ...


Oh boy little Hana!  Yes - Glad you did get the Flora Force probiotic - Keep her on this for at least 90 to 100 days.  Keep her on the steroid dosage and lower as per your Vet .... Yes, you can take her off very slowly and keep your vet " In the Loop" on your choices for Hana.

I would love to see Hana on the NuVET itchy dog kit.... 1/2 NuVET wafer 2 x per day  ( 1/2 in the am and 1/2 in the pm...)  LONG term.
All Natural and very safe : No harsh drugs...

Also - the NuVET folks make a hot spot spray that is Wonderful!!!!!
Spray on itchy areas when needed - smells so nice and soothing.
NuVET Hot spot spray is about 10.00 for a good size bottle.
The NuVET Plus Wafers run 20.00 to 39.00  ( Call in for the 15% off Discount - plus you are in Canada and need to call in for shipping to your area)
Not a problem - We have many Canadian NuVET clients
Call 1-800-474-7044  Give my discount  ***code 81098
Tell them VET Nurse Marie sent you.


You want the Hot spot spray and the NuVET wafers...
They also may a nice HOT - Spot / TEA tree oil shampoo for about 12.00 a bottle  ( you can use this ever 2 weeks - very soothing)

Hope this all helps.  Sounds like she may have the Black skin disease that is common with Shih Tzus and Poms - NO known cause and No cure - Just has it flair ups.


Sorry, Wish I could be of more help

Marie Peppers LPN MA
my private e-mail
mtnmom@gci.net