Sores between toes of dog

Question
I have an 18 month Vizsla and for the past several months she has been getting what look like blood blisters between her middle toes on both rear paws.  These blisters seem to flair up on and off sometimes bleeding and then suddenly go away.  We've tried to recognize some coralation between the flair ups and her routine, but we haven't really noticed anything significant. She was recently diagnosed with underactive thyroid. She does like to play fetch in the house and runs hard and stops on the carpet.  Is it possible the blisters are an allergic reaction to the 100% wool carpet?

Thank you for any suggestion.  

Answer
Hello Deb -

I apologize for my belated reply, I was having some computer problems and could not respond.

These sores sounds as though they may be a sign of your dog's underactive thyoid condition. One of the pain symptoms of this disorder is chronic bacteria infections of the skin.

These bacterial infections, which are various, can attribute to alot of skin allergies in humans and animals with an underactive thyroid. Your wool rug may be a playing factor which is irritating your pet but the main cause is the bacteria present which is enhancing the allergy.

First, begin to add Garlic powder to your pets food. Garlic is an anti-microbial and will help to fight and kill bacteria and infection present in the system. Don't be afraid to sprinkle it with a heavy hand, dogs love Garlic and she should eat it up right away. The only draw back to adding Garlic to the food is flatulence. It may be a little stinky but the Garlic is doing its job pushing the bacteria through the system. Just keep a couple clothes pins handy!. This is a safe and effective treatment and is suitable for long term use. It will not harm your pet, it will help increase immune system levels and will help aid the body in better over all health.

In addition, you may begin a supplement of Kelp. Kelp is seaweed and is the best natural remedy for anyone suffering from thyroid conditions, whether it be man or beast. Kelp helps to regulate and aid thryoid function and will help produce the same biochemicals as the thyroid gland which will aid the current medication your pet may be on from your veterinarian. Underactive thyoid usually shows lows levels of iodine in the system, the kelp will replace this and help the body system to level out. Once leveled, the body systems can begin to work together again and will be more productive. You can purchase kelp in tablet or powder form, either way it is beneficial to your pet. Some pet stores sell kelp (there will be other supplements with it) for a healthy, shiny coat. You can purchase "human" form kelp from any health food store. This is also safe, effective and suitable for long term use.

If this condition does not clear up in a few months time and stay suppressed I would take your pet to the veterinarian and have them run a few tests for Diabetes. I am not saying this is the problem but I would have it checked. Blisers between the toes can be a symptom and wouldn't want it to be overlooked in your pet. Your vet can also run a blood test to check for allergies, this may not be a bad option to see if the rug is the main culprit for the allergic reactions.

I hope this information has helped you and your pet.

If you would like information on natural and herbal remedies for human and animal concerns please contact me at wintersaurora@yahoo.com and I will be happy to assist you. I also offer a catalog of home made herbal remedies which I would be happy to send to you as well.

Thank you and best wishes to you and your pet.

Sincerely,
Sharon Hubbs, AHG
Certified Natural Health Consultant & Herbalist