My Golden

[DONNA C]

I Have A Golden Retriever Who Is Now 6 Months Old. I'm Finding Out That They Are Prone To Skin Problems Among Other Things. Since He Loves To Play Outside Among The Horses, He Seems To Develope A Staph Infection Which Requires A Shot And Antibiotic. Is There Something That I Can Use On Him That Would Help Prevent This? I Would Prefer To Use Something Natural. My Vet Suggests Keeping Him In The House So He Doesn't Roll In The Dirt, Hay And Horse Bedding But That Would Absolutely Kill Him! He Loves To Be Outside And I Can't Imagine Cooping Him Up! Help!

[Ginnie]

do you want to treat the skin problems or prevent them from happening? as far as i know, there's no way to stop a golden from developing allergies, though you may want to check his diet as that can cause problems. if he's already got rashes and whatnot, try shaving the affected area and applying an antibiotic cream. that will ease his discomfort and speed the healing process.

good luck.

[CaptainCrunch]

there's no way that you'll be able to prevent the allergic reaction from occuring. constantly buying antibiotics and cremes can get expensive though. and it's completely natural for you to not want to lock your dog up while you play outside. an alternative could be to put him on a leash when you go out to prevent him from rolling around in the dirt and hay. every once in a while let him loose to roll and run, but bathe him afterwards. this way you can still have him outside but will help to prevent an infection that's uncomfortable for him and expensive for you.

[PrincessCare]

Hi Donna! Haven't heard anything in a while... ho'ws it going with your Golden?