Just an observation about the toll allergies take... - Page 1

My Lab started having problems about 4.5 years ago and we've been battling chronic ear infections, itchy red toes and feet, constant licking and scooting, etc. ever since.  Fortunately, she hasn't had skin involvement to the point of hair loss or hotspots.  We're watching one of her littermates (a family member's dog) and it's amazing how different they appear given they're the same age.  My dog has so much more gray hair, her eyes don't have quite the same youthful twinkle as her sister's, my dog's muzzle isn't as soft as the other one because of all the constant scratching (some hair loss there).

It's interesting to note that the littermate had a mast cell tumor removed awhile ago and thankfully, thus far, has not had a recurrence.  She has never suffered any allergic type problems.  However, my dog is so miserable with allergies that it makes me wonder if MCTs might be a problem for her at some point, especially given the genetic component.  I don't know enough about it yet.

My dog is still vibrant and is much more agile and in a little bit better shape, but I think all these years of just being 'uncomfortable' have taken their toll, as she just appears older.  Seeing them together for this extended period has been rather interesting - there are times that they're in sync (looks like they're harnessed together) zig-zagging across the yard with their noses to the ground and the two of them will team up against the GSD in a game of chase which she absolutely *loves*, lol.  It's like they're the best of friends, even though they've rarely seen each other the past few years.  I'm really enjoying watching the interactions between the littermates and then the interactions between all three of them.