Sore on Dog’s Nose

February 3, 2014

Hi Gus,
A photo would be nice. But, at this time, I am suspicious that the problem in your 13 year old Male Chocolate Lab may have an underlying cause. The Staph bacteria is only secondary. Meaning the bacteria is only appearing because there is a break in his skin, it is not the CAUSE of the ‘break’ or crack on his nose. And it is only coincident that you happen to have the same bacteria since it is in the environment.

Zinc deficiency, auto-immune disorders, fungal infections, are just a few of the problems I would consider. Apparently the antibiotics have cleared up the secondary bacteria, but not the underlying cause.

I suggest start with a Complete Blood Panel that includes a Thyroid T4 test.

If he is eating ALL dry food, see our page on 10 Best Dog Food Options, https://www.organic-pet-digest.com/10-best-dog-food-options.html, and consider a RAW or more canned food in his diet. The skin needs moisture to heal. He may need some immune support, or nutritional supplements, especially if the blood panel shows some abnormal changes or deficiencies.

If this started a few weeks after a vaccination, I would be very concerned about ‘vaccinosis’. A condition that appears after a vaccine has been given to a susceptible individual that causes chronic illness. This is treated with specific homeopathic remedies.

Applying hydrogen peroxide to his nose is a good ‘antiseptic’, but not that safe to be given internally. (1-2 TBSP will make him vomit). You might consider coconut oil, as it is very safe for him to lick, and is excellent for healing the skin.

A photo may provide me with more information that may help.

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.

I just submitted the photos… The red spots in the discolored area just popped out in the last 2 days. The problem first arose in a fissure right at the front where the nostril begins. That spot has gotten bloody again.

The antibiotics definitely had an effect, but they never quite wiped out the infections 100%. Maybe I need to repeat them and go beyond the 20 day treatment.

I thank you for any advice you can give us.

Gus

February 5, 2014

Hi Gus,
Wow, now that I see what his nose looks like, I am very concerned you may be dealing with a cancerous or pre-cancerous lesion.

Prior to starting 3 weeks of antibiotics, (again), I suggest you ask for an impression smear, and or punch biopsy, (with local block such as lidocaine), for bacterial and fungal cytology and culture and sensitivity.

The culture will determine if this IS a bacteria or a fungus, and the sensitivity will show which antibiotic would be useful, if it is a bacteria.

Cytology and impression smear will determine is this is cancerous or not.

In the meantime, I would give the homeopathic remedy, THUYA 30C, TWO times daily for the next three days. (either dry pellet directly into his mouth or dissolved in Spring Water and then with an eye dropper into his mouth.)

And start immune support,

1. Missing Link Canine Formula
2. Immuplex from Standard Process
3. OrthoMolecular Specialties, Mega C Powder

It would be nice to find a holistic veterinarian to write an exemption form to AVOID any future vaccinations. And to monitor progress with treatment with the homeopathic remedy.

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.