Content Warning: Graphic images
Meet Cheeka
This sweet girl came into our care in Early March, uncomfortable and in pain.
Upon surrender, we learned that Cheeka has been suffering from ongoing skin conditions.
It was clear upon first glance that Cheeka is experiencing a severe and painful skin disease affecting her entire body. Her hair was gone, and her skin was swollen, red, and hot to the touch. She was covered in bleeding sores, heavy scaling, and signs of infection. Even simple procedures, like ear and skin swabs, caused her to cry out in pain.
Cheeka is also emaciated and may be deaf as a result of severe ear infections. Our Animal Health Team first gave Cheeka pain medication so they could safely bathe her and complete her intake exam. You will notice Cheeka’s tongue hanging from one side of her mouth, this is due to class III malocclusion with a wry bite, where the left mandible sits lower than the right.
She has now begun a new treatment plan that includes antibiotics, antifungal medication for yeast, steroids and anti-inflammatories, medicated baths, and specialized leave-in ear treatments as HSLM works to address the many issues causing her pain.
Surrendering Your Pet Is Never An Easy Decision - HSLM is here to help.
At HSLM, we are committed to providing a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment for pet owners.
We understand that surrendering a pet is never an easy decision—it often comes after careful consideration and reflects a deep desire to ensure an animal receives the care, time, and resources they need to thrive. When Cheeka was brought into our shelter, we learned that she has been suffering from skin conditions like this for quite some time despit some efforts by her owner to try and treat them.
Every situation is different, and many factors—often unseen—can lead someone to make this choice. Our role is not to judge, but to support both animals and the people who love them during what can be a very difficult time.
When individuals feel safe to ask for help, animals receive the care they need sooner—that is always our priority. You can be comforted in knowing that your pet will receive high-quality care from trained, professional staff.
HSLM keeps all healthy and adoptable animals in our care for as long as it takes to find them a suitable home—we never euthanize for space.
Understanding Skin Disease in Pets
Bully breeds, such as Bulldogs, Boxers, Frenchies and Mastiff types, can make wonderful companions—but they can also be prone to certain health challenges with their skin and ears.
When Cheeka was brought into our shelter, we learned that she has been suffering from skin conditions like this for quite some time.
Since arriving, our team has performed a full set of diagnostics to understand what is going on internally and she has been started on a comprehensive treatment plan including a hypoallergenic diet, antibiotics, antifungal medication (to target yeast ie.,malassezia), anti-inflammatory medications, medicated baths, and ear treatments. These types of cases are often complex and layered, especially in breeds like Bulldogs who are more prone to chronic skin disease.
Why This Happens
Skin disease in dogs is rarely caused by just one thing. It can often be a combination of:
● Skin folds and dense coats – which can trap moisture and bacteria causing infection
● Allergies (environmental or food-related)
● Yeast overgrowth
● Genetic predispositions – skin barrier issues and sensitive skin, chronic irritation, or recurring infections
These conditions can progress quickly if left untreated, and early signs can be subtle:
● Scratching licking or chewing the skin
● Red, inflamed or irritated areas
● Recurrent ear infections
● Changes in hair coat, hairloss, odor, or scaling
Prevention & Care Tips
● Clean skin folds and ears regularly to reduce infection risk
● Monitor skin and coat closely for changes
● Schedule regular veterinary check-ups, especially for breeds prone to allergies or chronic skin conditions
● Ask questions and follow your veterinarian’s advice for medicated baths, topical treatments, or medications
Even with prevention, some breeds may require ongoing management for chronic skin disease. Early attention, identification and proper treatment, can make a big difference to improve pet comfort and outcomes.
Remember: Every pet is unique. Consistent care and early intervention can help prevent chronic skin disease and keep your furry friend thriving!
If you or someone you know is facing the difficult decision to surrender a pet, we encourage you to reach out.
Our team is here to support you with compassion, understanding, and respect every step of the way.