Rash around eyes

Question
My 2-year old chocolate lab has a bumpy rash around one of his eyes (looks sort of like poison ivy). He is susceptible to allergies.  Does this sound like an allergy? Can you suggest a topical that I could use to help in healing?

Answer
Hi Leah,

Is he itching at the lesion? Is there any hair-loss?
Dogs generally do not get poison oak or poison ivy rashes. but it possible on lightly haired areas.

A rash such as you describe is very non-specific and could be one of the following: Scabies mites, contact dermatitis, ringworm, Staph. infection, Immune-mediated skin disease, a reaction to an oral medication she recently started, fleas, food allergy, environmental allergies and even a type of skin cancer. Without seeing the rash I can't say what your dog has.

Applying 100% pure Aloe Vera gel is a good all around skin remedy that will sooth itching, and can help a number of skin conditions. Plus, should your dog lick it, it's safe. There's no harm in applying a little Aloe Vera, to see if the rash clears up.

If it doesn't go away, or seems to get worse, then it's probably time to see your vet.

Best of luck,
Patti