Does anyone have any experience of these auto-immune skin disorders?  A 8 year old female that was returned to us at the beginning of the year has been diagnosed with this.  She is at present on high doses of steroids and antibiotics and is much brighter in herself, but we are aware that the prognosis is not good. 

Karen

I didn't realise dogs could get pemphigus.I have come across it a few times in humans,which reponded well to steroids but occasionally reocurred.Important that the blisters didn't become infected.Hope all goes well.

The same here cornishmals, I have nursed several people with pemphigus, but this is the first dog we have had with it.  It is apparently very rare in a St. Bernard, but there do appear to be certain breeds that are more predisposed to getting it.  Our vet feels that she would have had symptoms of it previously, but her previous owner never mentioned any problems (how many do!!!).  Our main concern is that she is comfortable and does not suffer.  The sore areas are improving, but it has been her feet that have caused her the most discomfort, but these are now also getting better. 

Karen

Found this on the web.  Not for dogs but loads of info about humans ;)

http://www.pemphigus.org.uk/

This was found relating to Akitas

http://www.akita-association.org/pemphigus.htm

hope this helps.

Hope this poor lassie can be kept comfortable.  Lucky girl coming back to you, at least she'll get the love and care she needs.

i didn.t realise dogs got it

http://www.upei.ca/cidd/Diseases/immune%20disorders/pemphigus.htm

hope this helps

Found another site here with pics.

Just an update, to say that sadly we had to make the decision to have Lizzie, our Saint with pemphigus, put to sleep this morning to save her from further suffering.  She initially improved with high doses of steroids, but deteriorated over the last 2 days.  the skin was coming off her pads, causing much distress and pain when she walked.  The blisters also recurred all around her eyes, nose and mouth and we could not let her suffer anymore.  Hopefully, we will never experience this awful condition again as it has been very distressing to see.  Run free Lizzie at The Rainbow Bridge.

Karen

So sorry to hear that you've had to make such a difficult decision for your dog.
Thinking of you and Lizzie.
xx

So,so,sorry to hear of your news.You all must be devastated.Thoughts with you.