Severe Skin Allergies

Question
I have a Cocker Spaniel that I rescued 3 yrs ago.  During this time, I have spent $1000s of dollars to "fix her".  I have tried everything to make her Elephant Skin go away.  She constantly itches.  She smells really bad from the yeast on her skin.  She hasn't had hair on her belly the whole time I've had her.  

I've been told that it's the food... so for the past 3 years, I've bought the most expensive Natural Rice and Lamb formula on the market.  I bought a product off the internet called "Enzymes" that was supposed to cure her.  After 6 months I saw no change.  I've tried mixing Apple Cider Vinegar with water and spraying on her.  She hated it!  This doesn't even begin to count the numerous shampoos, antibiotics, and cortizone shots we've gotten at the vet.

My point is... I just want her to be a normal, happy, dog that is able to live a good life.  She seems miserable ALWAYS scratching and itching.  I will pay ANY amount of money to make her better!  Do you know of a product or a special medicine I should ask my vet about?  Please help me...

Wendy & Honey Bee  

Answer
MY best recommendation is to find a vet that specializes in skin diseases to help you.

If this is a yeast infection then the oral drug ketoconazole will help.  Also a new shampoo called MalaKet from Dermapet will be very helpful.

Yeast infections are secondary to some type of underlying skin disease.  Food allergy and atopic dermatitis are common in Cockers and if you have tried "everything" then maybe it is time for a skin biopsy to tell the vet what type of disease it really is.  Allergy testing may also be indicated so that you can desensitize the dog's skin.

If you tell me what part of the country you live in, maybe I can direct you to a vet dermatologist in your area.