we have a five yr old chow chow with a skin allergie to something she is constantly biting her skin has numerous open sores on she does get extremily distressed at times taken her to vets on steriods,piriton and anti biotics at the moment had blood tests but nothing conclusive shown up.changed food.any advise would be greatly appreciated as we are desperate and the vet has advised us that we are nearing the end of the road with her now but i cant bare to let her go not until we have tried absolutely everything.

Possible suggestions are bathing in Hibiscrub (can be bought over the counter at most pharmacies). Also Nizoral shampoo (human anti dandruff shampoo that can also be bought at pharmacies) - it will kill off any fungal infection.

Other possible suggestion would be a homeopathic vet and or a visit to another ordinary vet for a second opinion. Or a referral to a skin specialist.

A diet of raw food or home cooked food rather than commercial food.

Has your vet tried cyclosporin tablets? (hope your dog is insured as they are expensive).

Two books I have on the subject of dog allergies are as follows

"Pet Allergies by Alfred Plechner" & "The Allergy Solution for Dogs by Shawn Messonier" .

Ester C tablets, Vit E tablets and fish oil capsules are also a possibility.

Getting rid of carpets (replace with laminate,vinyl or tiles) can help if house dust mite is causing a problem.

I also got rid of grass outside as my bitch is also allergic to that.

Hope some of this helps.

Some further ideas that have come to mind

Regular bathing essential at least twice a week.

Must also ensure the dog is treated for fleas regularly.

Would also suggest an Elizabethian collar to prevent the dog causing further damage to the already damaged skin.

Hi Guest
Take a look at http://www.bobgrass.co.uk/product.html . There is also a handy book done buy a chow person with lots of usefull tips in it.
If you would like to email me privatly my addy is anderchow@btinternet.com
Chow