Severe black heads all over YorkiePoo

Question
I recently adopted a 4 yr old? - (nobody's sure)Yorkiepoo.  He is a gem of a dog.  He came to the shelter with no hair around  the middle of his body and his skin all black and elephantized.  It was determined he has a thyroid situation and in on medication for it. His hair is growing back and he has gained 5 pounds since they found him - 7 months ago.  The problem that we can't seem to get a handle on is the massive blackhead condition all over his neck and torso.  I'm feeding him IAMS mini bites.  He's happy, active, and otherwise very healthy.  Any suggestions?


Answer
Cindy

I'm so glad you adopted this little guy and have made so much progress towards helping him get healthy.

There is one factor which I have not found vets to be well versed on - in fact, they rarely take more than one class on food.

I believe that if you switched to a kibble which has no corn, no wheat and no soy in it, you would see a big change over the course of several weeks.  These are fillers found in many commercial dog foods to which many dogs have sensitivities.  

It is important to note that you will not find kibble that I am recommending in the grocery store.  There are a wide variety of brands to choose from, but you will need to go to a pet supply store or order them online.

If he is uncomfortable, here is an excellent skin care regimen which has helped countless foster dogs detox and heal up:

http://www.cairnrescue.com/docs/SkinCareRegime.htm

I really believe that if you do these things, your little man will get even healthier and happier.  Again, thank you so much for taking him into your heart and home.

-Beth