Question:
As long as I can remember, our 10-year-old Dalmatian, Sylvester, has had acute sensitivity to touching and petting, particularly at rest. He loves to snuggle, but unless he's in a deep sleep, he'll snarl and bark angrily if you even lay a hand on him.Like all Dalmatians, he's active and enjoys a swim whenever possible. In the summer, this leads to skin rashes and a generally foul-smelling coat, owing to his access to brackish water in our yard. I wonder if the rashes and the touch sensitivity are related. Can you recommend an antibacterial medication or soap? We want so much to pet this wonderful animal without upsetting him.
E.P., East Greenbush, NY Nov 06, 2005
Answer:
I wish more people were as accepting and respectful of their animals' wishes as you. Most would overreact to the snarling and barking. Actual biting is another matter, of course.There are all kinds of foreign proteins from bacteria and algae in brackish water, some of which can make a dog ill -- or even cause death -- if swallowed. Your pet should be hosed down with clean water or placed in the shower immediately after the dunking. Using a mild baby shampoo is a good idea, too.You can also mix a human multivitamin tablet or capsule daily with his food, along with one teaspoon each of Brewer's yeast and flaxseed oil. This should significantly improve his skin and coat condition.
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