Hannelore, I think the reason that lamb/rice foods are considered
"hypoallergenic" is because dogs usually haven't been exposed to those
ingredients, and therefore haven't had time to build up a reaction. I
know some people who "save" L/R formulas for just in case their dogs have
a reaction to their regular food. Solid Gold is an excellent choice for
allergic dogs, and Wysong has allergy formulas of their food, too. Flint
River Ranch I don't think has soy or corn, not sure about wheat. The
biggest culprits are wheat , soy, and corn, but it could be anything--a
dye, a preservative, etc. I think you are very wise to look to diet for
an answer to your problem. With your vet's help (or without, if you read
enough nutrition texts) you can isolate ingredients until you find the
culprit.
Also, you might try a humectant shampoo and humectant spray after bathing,
and maybe less frequent baths, and take a long hard look at your flea
prevention program. I've seen dogs who were allergic to fibers in the
carpet, certain weeds, all kinds of things. I wish you lots of luck--if
you'd like, I could post your question to the well-pet list, there are
good vets on it and lots of really knowledgeable people. Or e-mail me and
I'll tell you how to join. I've learned a lot on the list, and allergies
are a VERY common topic!
Good luck to you and your poor itchy pup!
Belinda
Cappy and Niko (Mom's always tellin' me to stop scratchin' cuz show dogs
don't itch--I think maybe she's a few dogs short of a sled team!)
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