Ugh I feel so bad! I wish there were some way I could help, especially since Im sure my dad (he is a veterinary dermatologist for those of you who dont know) would be able to tell you what is wrong with Jasper.
You should have your parents read this info..
The "allergy" medicide you are giving him is probably prednisone or some other steroid. It stops itching and relieves allergies wonderfully, but over a long period of time can be extremely harmful and destroy the liver as you said. Steroids also increase the dogs appetite and thrist and causes them to gain a ton of weight. Steroids should be avoided at all costs and should always be used in the lowest dose possible. And if the dog has to be on them, it should have a bloodtest done every so often to check the liver. There are other medications to help allergies such as antihistimines (like Benadryl or Hydroxyzine), and a drug called cyclosporin (also called Atopica). You should definately ask your vet about cyclosporin. Or have them ask a dermatologist about it. It works like steroids but with none of the harmful long term affects that steroids have. But it is only for inhalent (pollen, dust, etc) allergies.
The inhalent allergy test he had (to test for allergies to grass, dust, etc), was it a blood test? Because as I said in a previous post, allergy blood tests are very inaccurate. So even though it said he was negative, this may not be true.
Also, when doing a food trial it is imperative to make sure the dog ONLY gets the food that is being tested. (Which foods have you tried by the way? There are special diets only vets can get that you should be using to test, such as Hill's Z/D, Eukanuba K/O, or Purina L/B, not just something from a petstore like avoderm or some random lamb & rice formula.) It is frustrating I am sure to have other family members giving him snacks, but theres no way for you to know if he has food allergies or not if they are giving him treats. You or your vet need to make it clear to them that he must NOT receive anything extra (this includes bones, rawhide and flavored toys) while on a food trial. Also, some dogs are actually allergic to animal protein and need a vegetarian diet. But that is not very common.
I have no idea what bath would cause brain damage, that is just weird.
And yes, allergies are hereditary.
You should definately ask your vet to consult with a dermatologist. Maybe even before doing the biospy because it may be unnessecary.
Dont know if I have given you this link yet or not but here:
http://www.acvd.org/public/findaderm/international.htm
There are 6 dermatologists listed in Canada.
Good luck, dont stop trying, and dont make yourself feel bad! Definately consider seeking out a dermatologist if at all possible, (or at least ask your vet to consult with one!!) because you will save money in the long run, I guarentee it! There may be something your vet is missing, or diagnosing wrong simply because they dont have the experience that a specialist has. It isnt their fault, but you might be spending money for things you dont need. A dermatologist will be able to pinpoint what is wrong right away (whether it is allergies or not) and it will save you from frequent visits to your regular vet and from unneccesary tests and treatment. (Believe me, I see the same situation everyday at work).
Be sure to share this info I gave you with your parents as well. I really hope you figure things out soon, I am sorry you have been having so much trouble.Keep us posted.
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