skin irritation/rashes

Question
my 11 year old (12 in august) cocker spaniel has developed skin rashes all over her body. at first i noticed one, but then i gave her a hair cut and they were everywhere. one on her neck has some puss (foul odor). and she has a growth on her lip. i don't know what to do. is this something i can cure with a cream/pills from a pet store or is it vital i take her to a vet? (im a struggling student, not much cash lying around here...) PLEASE HELP

Answer
I wish I could offer a low cost solution but your girl really does need to see a vet.
And the first thing that should be done is a thyroid test along with a full blood panel.

She'll probably need antibiotics and the vet should do a skin cell analysis (this is simple and they'll either use a piece of tape or a light skin scrape) to determine if this is yeast or bacteria or both.

You'll also have to do medicated baths twice a week until this clears up.

But please get her medical attention - this will get worse.
Delores