Hi Kristen,
Sorry- I haven’t watched the forum for awhile. The Apoquel (I know it’s a little pricey), it did get things under control enough for me to get into a dermatologist (it took months to get in, so if you are considering it, make the call early.)
Keeping my dog on medication was not something I wanted to do long term. The Apoquel felt like a better choice than prednisolone. She is now doing immunotherapy drops through the dermatologist. This is not medication, but specific antigens your dog is allergic to with the goal of making him less allergic, or in some cases, not allergic. It is now starting to show signs (4 months later) and it will be ongoing. We are able to lessen the Apoquel now. I am happy with the result. Bathing my dog with prescription shampoo twice a week, and using ear cleaner and a weekly drop (from my dermatologist) also helped ALOT.
Good luck. It’s a long haul and you have to be patient. Get professional guidance, go slow to rule things out. You are doing a great job. I know you want this figured out “yesterday”:) I just want to help you have realistic expectations. I’m praying for ya!
