Prevalence of hepatotoxicity and myelosuppression with alternate day use of azathioprine and glucocorticoids for treatment of dermatological conditions in dogs.

Background: The use of azathioprine (AZA) in dogs is limited by the potential for hepatotoxicity and myelosuppression.

Hypothesis/objectives: To determine the prevalence of AZA-associated hepatotoxicity in dogs with dermatological conditions receiving alternate-day AZA. The hypothesis was that dogs receiving AZA every other day (EOD) would have a lower prevalence of hepatotoxicity compared to published data for dogs receiving daily AZA.

A double-blinded, randomized, controlled, crossover evaluation of a zinc methionine supplement as an adjunctive treatment for canine atopic dermatitis.

Background: Zinc is important for skin health and proper immune system function.

Hypothesis/objectives: A zinc methionine, essential fatty acids (EFA) and biotin product (Zn supplement) was compared to an EFA and biotin product (control) in canine atopic dermatitis (CAD).

Animals: Twenty seven client-owned dogs with chronic CAD receiving ciclosporin or glucocorticoids.