Redness and Scaling Above Dog’s Upper Lip

October 1, 2013

Hi Jeff,

From the photos you submitted there are a number of possible causes for this redness/inflammation to appear in that location. You do not mention if it is *itchy* or if he is continuing to rub it or paw at his face. If he is really itchy, then I would suspect an allergic reaction. It *might* be an allergic reaction to food, or more likely, could be to a plastic food bowl or whatever container you are feeding him from, especially if it IS a plastic or synthetic material. Ceramic and stainless steel are very 'hypo-allergenic'.

Other causes, that would ALSO be itchy, would be poison ivy or poison oak.

You might need to make him wear an E-collar to prevent further trauma, change food bowls, and/or keep him from poison ivy/poison oak, and wash his face/mouth area with a diluted baby shampoo and rinse well.

If it is NOT itchy, then the problem might be an auto-immune condition. Diseases such as Pemphigus foliaceous, appear as a red rash that occurs at 'muco-cutaneous' junctions, where the skin meets mucous membrane. Other skin problems that are a possibility are mange or ringworm. Diagnosis would be with a blood test for the auto-immune condition, skin scraping to diagnose for mange mites, and fungus culture for the ringworm.

See our page for parasites, for more information on Demodex mange mite, https://www.organic-pet-digest.com/how-to-treat-dog-mange.html#Demodectic.

And check out our page on ringworm, https://www.organic-pet-digest.com/dog-skin-conditions.html#Parasites, and scroll down to ringworm. (which is a fungus, not a worm).

Seeking the help of a holistic veterinarian, would be the best plan for a diagnosis, and to get treatment. Unless you are able to rule out all of the above possibilities first.

Another resource for vets knowledgeable in homeopathy is AVH.org.

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the 'click here to add your own comments' link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

DISCLAIMER: The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.