In a message dated 4/30/2009 9:52:19 A.M. Central Daylight Time, Pinehillgsds@xxxxxxx writes: No, I think the rake can defiantly cause it. Some tips are rather sharp and you could be setting up a scraped area that is then a host for bacteria. Throw out the rake. Had the same problem. Had a male that often got foliculitis when he shed, but always after brushing out. Seems the dander in the equipment you use can transfer of course to other dogs who may be more sensitive. Now, I make up a dip with alcohol, peroxide and water (at my vets suggestion) and before going to the next dog, I dip the brushes, combs etc and dry them. All has been well since. Molly Trillia German Shepherds since 1972 ph 409-287-3940 Member GSDCA, GSDCC, GSDC of Beaumont (recording secretary), Life member CKC "The greatest discovery of any generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitude"-William James **************Big savings on Dell XPS Laptops and Desktops!(http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1219491521x1201306563/aol?redir=http:%2F%2Fad.double click.net%2Fclk%3B214102108%3B35952091%3Bs) ============================================================================ POST is Copyrighted 2008. All material remains the property of the original author and of GSD Communication, Inc. NO REPRODUCTIONS or FORWARDS of any kind are permitted without prior permission of the original author AND of the Showgsd-l Management. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ALL PERSONS ARE ON NOTICE THAT THE FORWARDING, REPRODUCTION OR USE IN ANY MANNER OF ANY MATERIAL WHICH APPEARS ON SHOWGSD-L WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PERMISSION OF ALL PARTIES TO THE POST AND THE LIST MANAGEMENT IS EXPRESSLY FORBIDDEN, AND IS A VIOLATION OF LAW. VIOLATORS OF THIS PROHIBITION WILL BE PROSECUTED. For assistance, please contact the List Management at admin@xxxxxxxxxxxx VISIT OUR WEBSITE - http://showgsd.org NATIONAL BLOG - http://gsdnational.blogspot.com/ ============================================================================