Boxer and antibiotics

Question
Hello, My 2 year old boxer often breaks out with a swollen, red paw and simultaneously, her lips get irritated.  Some areas of the black of her lips turn bright pink and look raw.  This has happened often.  The first time it happened, we took her to the vet and they prescribed an antibiotic and prescription shampoo.  It then happened a couple of months later and they refilled the antibiotic for us.  Here we are again 2 months later with the same problem.  Is it okay to have her on antibiotics so frequently?  Could this be an allergy?  It's evident that her lips and paw are irritating her, as she licks both.  Her lips look painful!  Have you had any experience with Boxers that develop an irritation where their lips become spotty with bright pink, raw looking areas?  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Trisha,

This is most likely an allergy. Try only stainless steel bowls for food and water as many dogs are allergic to plastic. Ask your vet about giving her an antihistamine and the long term affects of antibiotics. The antibiotics are usually given to keep down secondary infections. Limit her outdoor activities in cold weather as it could be wind burn which she is making worse by licking much like humans who get chapped lips. Here is a link to more information http://www.hitowerboxers.com/foodallergiesinboxerdogs.htm also see this article
http://www.hitowerboxers.com/fleaallergiesinboxers.htm the most common allergies in boxers are  food related, inhalant or parasites.Thank you for your questions.

Angela Donald
Canine Behavior Consultant
http://www.hitowerboxers.com