Bulldogs World

Hi, everyone,

I was hoping to take advantage of the board's collective wisdom! One of my bullies (Eddie) has been battling a mild to moderate staph infection for awhile now. The vet prescribed him a medicated shampoo and lotion (Dermachlor K and Resichlor), both of which have been helpful in treating, if not eliminating the issue. Recently, during an unrelated follow-up visit, he noted improvement but prescribed a course of antibiotics (Cephalexin) to clear up what remained of Eddie's skin issues and prevent any new re-occurrences. At the time, I purchased the antibiotics but elected not to start them just yet (they've been stored in my fridge), because I had transitioned my dogs to a raw diet only a few weeks prior and was curious about whether my dogs' overall improved health would help the staph infection clear up without antibiotics. This has been the case to a certain extent - Eddie's irritated, dry, little skin bumps have almost entirely disappeared. The only exception is one patch of skin between his shoulder blades about the size of a matchbox that remains thickened, crusty, and bald. I'm tempted to just go through with the course of antibiotics to get rid of this persistent thing, but I'm concerned about any contra-indications with the raw diet that Eddie has now been on for the past month. Is it safe for me to give him the Cephalexin in conjunction with this diet, or will doing so give him all kinds of awful digestive upset by killing the beneficial bacteria in his gut? Sorry if this is a silly question - it's certainly one to which I don't know the answer and would really appreciate your thoughts!

Susie, Eddie, and Alex

P.S. Eddie and Alex continue to do very well on raw and are now eating chicken, pork, and beef without issue. =)