Here’s my boy Otis and he’s 12 years old and quite easily the bestest boy out there. About a couple years ago, Otis developed a skin infection which seemed resistant to antibiotics and any sort of medicated cleanser. It prompted us to go to a dermatologist to run a bunch of tests and was prescribed medication. He was on pretty strong antibiotics for weeks on end which ended up affecting his appetite which was hard to watch because he loves food - he gets a solid intake of fruits and vegetables daily on top of his kibble. We felt slightly defeated given that we had spent a pretty penny hoping to resolve his skin issues yet it never really went away and opted to trial a process of elimination to see if it would help. 

He is also diagnosed with atypical Addison’s disease which he takes x1 2.5mg of prednisone daily for together with gabapentin to help with him with his arthritis and gets a monthly Librella shot. 

Over the last two years, we’ve had him on various protein sources (having him on a particular protein for at least 8-12 weeks before switching over to something else if we saw no improvement) including limited ingredient diet. Beef, pork, salmon and venison. We saw improvement whilst he was on venison but it never fully went away. 

A couple weeks ago, Otis went in for his annual check up and they had done pretty comprehensive bloodwork. Everything checked out fine for the most part. His thyroid levels stood out, being on the lower side but still within normal range. We’re currently doing additional testing for this to ensure he’s not hyperthyroid which can cause recurring skin issues. 

The vet is leaning on his skin issues being allergy related and is suggesting we put him on hydrolyzed protein diet. We however are a little hesitant due to the unpronounceable ingredients listed on the back of the bag compared to what he’s been on (Acana, Go! and currently on Open Farms). 

Before fully making the switch to hydrolyzed, I was curious on what other dog parents experiences were like putting their dog on a vegetarian diet. Thanks in advance !



Vegetarian based diet for chronic skin issues?