English bulldog addicted to steriods

Question

Krunch   QUESTION: Marie, my 7yr old english bulldog has a lot of skin allergies.  This is my 5th bulldog so I am familiar with the breed and problems.  Krunch is about 85 pds at least now, been on 20mg.predisone for longer than he should be.  Everytime I would try and wean him off the steroids his skin would turn red before your eyes.  Eyes would get gooky & ears red and the smell of him would be terrible without steriods.  The vet has been very helpful by refilling the script instead of seeing him suffer with his skin problems.  Krunch is also on thyroid for an enlarged prostate. Before the downturn of the economy I took him for his vet visits, but now, I cannot afford to.  I don't know what to do for my poor baby now.  Is their an organization that can help with care or money to treat him?  My vet has been helpful in regard to suggestions and working with me as best he can.  Can you help me help my boy?


Marie's Clients ....   ANSWER: Diana -  I am sorry about this !  Wish your vet had worked on his allergies and yeast problems.  The smell is mostly an overgrowth of yeast bacteria.
I understand why he needs the Steroid treatments but, you could change over his food, add some supplements and oils.
Then, lower the steroid usage with your VET's assistance over a period of time.  

Most groups, that help pets in need, deal with pets that need operations.  I don't know of any groups that will help with a dog in your situation.  

Let me know if you want to make some healthy changes between my suggestions and your VET's help????

What country are you in?

OH - I love his photo...Can I use it for my posts????
So cute...
I sometimes post bullies on my Q and A sites:




Marie Peppers LPN MA


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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks, Marie.  I am in the US, Florida, where a bulldog likes his air conditioning.  The vet has worked with the yeast & bacteria problems, I just didn't have the $$ to go further.  Steriods have helped him a lot.  I'll figure it out though.  Of course, use Krunch's pic for your posts- he is a beautiful bullie.

Answer
Hi - How about you try some Flora Force - a good probiotic - here is the link to this very strong but SAFE probiotic...
HELPS to get rid of the yeast....

I would do 2 Flora Forces for 2 months.  I bet it will help an bunch... ( 1 bottle has 90 tablets and it is around 25.00)
NO vet visit needed for this.... Natural

VERY low cost, too...
http://www.mynsp.com/nuvetpetnurse/products/guide.aspx?stockNum=4080

If you want to do a food change, let me know...I can offer some that can be found at your local pet store...


Wish I could be of more help - I know your funds are limited at this time.  HOPE things will get better in that area!!!
Many of my clients are low on funds ..... I am so glad to be able to offer them many low cost options.

BEST wishes

Marie Peppers LPN MA
ASK the Pet Nurse

mtnmom@gci.net