Skin/hair problems in 12 year old Lab/Chow mix

Question
Jesse, my 12 y/o Lab mix, has been experiencing hair loss and pustules on the skin of her face, ears, throat and chest.  I have had her to the vet 3 times.  They can't determine the cause.  She began losing hair symmetrically, around her eyes and in the "temple" regions of her face.  Then, ears, throat, some on the chest, and more around the eyes.  Pustules began developing.  Have had her on antibiotics twice.  Helped some it while taking them, but pustules returned once the meds were finished.  She slings her head a lot.  Had her checked for earmites - none.  The pustules become crusty and dry.  I use a mild soap and water to wash the affected areas which removes most of the "crustiness."  Then put on a Vaseline type product and wipe off the excess.  It kills me to see her like this.  I do not have the money to go to a dermatologist for her.  Can you offer any advice?  We thought, at first, it was an allergy to some hay we used during cold weather earlier in the year, as this began back in February.  We didn't realize until once she had been on it, that it had mold in it.  I immediately removed it and cleaned the area well.  She hasn't been around hay in months.  It began to improve, then it became worse again.  I noticed a couple of weeks ago, that the dog feed she has eaten all along was a significantly darker color.  There was no notice of any ingredient/ratio change.  Please help!

Answer
Hi Karen,

When it comes to skin conditions in dogs, a quick diagnosis is sometimes difficult to make, and various diagnostic tests may need to be performed.

Antibiotics were prescribed to treat the secondary skin infections (which may be significant), but does nothing to treat the cause of the problem.

Here is a website that lists many skin conditions common to dogs, perhaps you can find something that sounds like what your dog has here:
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=2&cat=1593&articleid=421

If your dog is itching (you didn't mention that she was) you could try using an antipruritic shampoo. Brands to look for are:

NuSal-T Shampoo
Allermyl Shampoo
LyTar Shampoo

Your vet can also suggest a medicated shampoo.

You mentioned that the food you feed your dog seems to be darker in color. Many times the formula of dog foods are changed, that could explain the color difference. You didn't say what you've been feeding your dog. Even if it's a food that's been well tolerated for years, dogs do develop food intolerance's.  

Many times an Omega 3-6 fatty acid supplement if suggested for dogs with skin and coat problems. It takes a up to two months of daily dosing before you can expect to see results from dietary supplements, and if your dog is having a medical problem, the dietary supplements won't change anything.

Your dog needs treatment, there's no way around that. Now that your vet know what it isn't, more tests need to be run to see what to do next. A thyroid test would be a good place to start.

I realize your funds are limited. Have you discussed with your vet the possibility of paying your bill off over time? Your local Humane Association or animal shelter may know of reduced cost animal clinics in your area. If you happen to be elderly, some cities have programs to help financially with vet bills.

These organizations might be able to help with your vet bills. Each has it's own application process:

http://www.imom.org/fa/qualify.htm
http://www.thepetfund.com/
http://www.aahahelpingpets.org/root/
http://www.help-a-pet.org/home.html
http://www.angels4animals.org/

This is a special credit company you can use for paying vet bills:
http://www.carecredit.com/

Best of luck,
Patti